YOUNG people in Christchurch showed they do have a political voice, tackling Christchurch candidates over election issues at a town centre hustings.

It was standing room only at Twynham School hall on Wednesday evening as around 350 residents packed out the room, eager for a chance to quiz the four candidates.

Conservative candidate and current MP, Chris Chope, Green Party candidate, Shona Dunn, Labour's Andrew Satherley and Ukip's Robin Grey all took part in the event, which was organised by four Christchurch churches.

Andy Canning, the Liberal Democrat candidate was not present.

As well as some students, the room was filled with other residents, keen to have their say on issues of local and national importance.

After candidates had introduced themselves, a range of topics from religious freedom, housing, foreign aid, taxes, education and minimum wage were covered, with each party representative given an opportunity to answer.

The hustings were chaired by Reverend Chris Brockway.

When it came to education, one student took the chance to admonish MP Chris Chope over his vote to end financial support for 16-19year-olds as well as his support for increased tuition fees.

The young male student, whose comment was greeted with applause, said he felt 'under represented' in Christchurch.

Mr Chope, defending the comment, made reference to the Liberal Democrats, saying: "At least I did not go into the last General Election saying one thing and then changed my mind."

He added: "Our universities are recognised across the world but we can't afford to have them unless we get proper funding."

A female student then asked each candidate who they knew on a minimum wage contract.

The question led to a discussion of zero hours contracts, with Labour's Andrew Satherley, heavily criticising the 'unacceptable' scheme.

Shona Dunn said the Green Party wanted to make the minimum wage a living wage and scrap zero hours contracts.

And Ukip's Robin Grey, who said his son was on minimum wage, said young people "can't get decent jobs" because of the country's 'open door policy'.

Mr Chope said he was in favour of a flexible labour market.

"If employees are of value to their employer they are likely to increase their wage.

"Some of the most imaginative employers all pay far more than the minimum wage."

Other issues which exposed differences between the candidates included foreign aid.

And Labour's Andrew Satherley came under fire for the party's proposal to re-introduce the 10p tax rate after Gordon Brown scrapped it in 2007.

All candidates agreed the event had been a success but wished there was more time to tackle issues including the NHS and immigration.

Reverend Brockway said: "The feedback we have had from people is that the evening was really helpful and informative.

"We're really pleased at the way it went and thank all the candidates who came as well as residents."