CANDIDATES running for election in Christchurch will take part in hustings next month.

Four churches in Christchurch have joined together to host the Christchurch Churches Parliamentary Election Hustings on Wednesday April 15.

They will be held at Twynham School in Sopers Lane.

All but one of the Christchurch candidates are due to take part in the free event, which starts at 7.30pm.

Reverend Chris Brockway of Christchurch Baptist Church, who have organised the hustings, said: “Hustings are public meetings where election candidates speak to potential voters.

"They are a great way to hear directly from the candidates and to ask them questions about the issues you care about.

"Sadly Andy Canning, the Liberal Democrat candidate, is not able to attend but we are hoping the Liberal Democrats will send a representative.”

Current Christchurch MP, Conservative Christopher Chope said: “I would like to thank Chris Brockway and the Christchurch Churches for organising this event. It provides an important opportunity for Christchurch residents to ask questions of their Parliamentary candidates prior to the General Election so that they can make an informed choice on May 7.”

UKIP candidate, Robin Grey, said, “I welcome the opportunity to explain why I am standing for parliament as the UKIP candidate.

"I have lived in the real world and come to this point rather late in life and have no other motive than to do what is right by my country and the people of Christchurch and I know that once elected I will demonstrate my commitment beyond doubt.”

Andrew Satherley who is the Labour Party candidate said: “I am greatly looking forward to the opportunity to listen to the people of Christchurch on issues of national and local importance, and to setting out Labour’s vision for the protection of our public services, investment in the skills of the next generation, and direct action to tackle the cost of living crisis."

And Shona Dunn, candidate for the Green Party, also thanked the churches for organising the event.

She said: "At this critical time in society it’s more important than ever to engage in politics - they affect our daily lives and determine our quality of living."

For more information contact Chris Brockway at Christchurch Baptist Church on 01202 487442 or email office@christchurchbaptist.org.uk.