Rise in jobless

In total, 5080 in the region were claiming out of work benefits that month, 83 per cent more than the same time in 2019.

Youth unemployment in the 18-24 age group was also up 94 per cent locally compared to last year.

Meanwhile, 17,900 workers were still furloughed in August, while those claiming Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) funds were 6200.

In total, this 34 per cent of the working age population.