A major online recruiter has claimed the jobs market is thriving in 2006, with their latest figures defying industry fears of mounting problems for employers and candidates.

In a snapshot of the UK jobs scene, reed.co.uk has identified major growth areas across the economy, and claims that more employers than ever are currently looking for new recruits.

The accountancy and finance industry is particularly buoyant with more than 30,000 vacancies in the sector demonstrating the huge demand for talent in this area.

The firm is currently advertising around 250,000 jobs on its website - the highest ever recorded by reed.co.uk - highlighting the demand for workers and the growing importance of online recruitment.

Martin Warnes, the firm’s head of operations said specific industries were experiencing high levels of demand.

“There are now over 30,000 jobs in accountancy and senior finance on the site, indicating a significant demand for talent.

"We've also been able to identify significant growth in certain sectors: building and construction; hospitality and catering; and retail and scientific have all grown considerably over the last twelve months,” he added.