The number of unemployed people claiming benefits has fallen rapidly in the past year in Esher and Walton.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics released on September 17 showed 304 fewer people claimed benefits in August of this year, compared with August 2013.

Unemployed claimants in these areas have fallen still from July 2014, where data showed 36 more people were claiming job seekers allowance.

Esher and Walton are now 624th out of 650 constituencies, with 650th referring to the lowest rate of unemployment.

August 2014 saw 478 unemployed claimants compared with 782 in August 2013.

Dominic Raab, MP for Walton and Esher, said: "We continue to see the economic recovery driving local jobs growth. It's the job of government to provide the financial stability and economic climate so that our vibrant local businesses can grow and expand, and ultimately take on more staff.

"It's good news that this is happening, and it shows the difficult decisions taken to turn round the economy are paying off."

  •  Are you an Esher or Walton resident and have recently found work after claiming job seekers allowance? Get in touch on 020 8722 6368 or ellie.cambridge@london.newsquest.co.uk.