The UK's subsea sector of oil and gas, mainly based at the north-east of Scotland, is booming and needs 10,000 new people in the next year, an industry body has claimed.

But employers warned that not enough people are qualified to do the work they need.

It could mean posts stay vacant despite high unemployment.

Subsea UK, which represents more than 250 companies, surveyed 43 of its members and found there are already 800 vacancies, with more recruitment to come as the sector boom continues.

Chief executive Neil Gordon said: "With the economy still fairly fragile, it is fantastic that our industry is creating so many new jobs. The challenge for us is finding suitably qualified people to meet immediate demand and attracting new people into the industry to fulfil future demand."

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The UK subsea industry generates £6billion in revenues and already supports about 50,000 jobs.

It is expected to grow by 40% in the next two years.

More than 50% of survey respondents said that recruiting suitably qualified people was very difficult with 14% believing it was almost impossible.

Recruiting semi-qualified people is slightly easier but 45% still believe it is difficult.

Engineers, project managers and technicians are the most sought after positions with ROV (remotely operated vehicle) operators and sales and marketing positions also in demand.

Subsea UK joined companies including Aker Solutions, BP, FUGRO Subsea and Total at Westminster yesterday to lobby for Government support in developing technology and attracting young people into the industry.

(NE)