GRADUATES in the North-west have enjoyed the highest salary increases in England, it is reported.

According to the latest Graduate Market Trends Salary and Vacancy Survey, starting salaries for graduates in the region now average £17,982 - an increase of 12 per cent over the previous year and second only to Scotland. The rise is attributed to a high proportion of typically well paid jobs in management consultancy and finance. Across the country, starting salaries and vacancies are continuing to rise despite widespread talk of recession.