PARLIAMENTARY candidates in West Dorset will be quizzed on environmental issues at an event in Dorchester.

Ahead of the general election approaching candidates from all five of the main parties in the constituency will take to the stage at the Thomas Hardye School theatre from 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 15.

The hustings event has been organised by the Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) and will give local people a chance to hear the politicians' views on environmental issues in the county.

The candidates will be asked what their party will do for the county's environment.

The DWT says the natural environment is of huge importance to health, wellbeing and economic growth and the election comes at a time when many contentious issues are up for debate in the county including solar power on nature reserves, placement of wind turbines, the need to reduce our carbon footprint and badger culling.

Other environmental issues the DWT says need attention is fracking in areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the establishment of marine protected areas and illegal hunting.

The charity says the Thomas Hardye School event will give local people the chance to find out what political parties think about all these topics.

Chief executive of the DWT Simon Cripps, who will be one of the questioners on the night, said: “It should be a lively and interesting evening which will no doubt test the chairing skills of the headteacher.

"We should learn a lot about what the parties think and what they are promising us.

"Nature needs our support more than ever before and I want to see if the parties are up to the job.”

Lesley Docksey, co-organiser of the hustings, added: “I think the public have a right to know what the politicians are thinking about one of the most important subjects for the people of Dorset – the environment we live in and the wildlife that makes up the special character of the county.”

Representatives from nine of the main environmental groups in the county will be asking the candidate’s questions related to their field and also posing questions sent in by the public.

To suggest a question email dorsetbbw@gmail.com by the Thursday, April 9.

Tickets are free but must be obtained in advance from the school reception from Monday, April 13.