HYNDBURN Labour candidate Graham Jones has challenged his general election opponents to join public debates before the December 12 polling day.

He has written an open letter to his rivals urging their attendance at political ‘hustings’.

Mr Jones, who has served as MP since 2010, wrote: “This general election is a once in a generation decision about the destiny of our country.

“The people of Haslingden and Hyndburn deserve to know our views on all the issues, not just the ones we want to talk about.

“The added difficulty of a poll in December means voters will not get the same opportunity to see us out on the doorsteps. Therefore, I propose we hold as many hustings to enable the public to meet us and give us the scrutiny we deserve.

“Two hustings have already been confirmed: The Irish Democratic League Club, Haslingden, on November 15 and Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre on November 20.”

Conservative candidate Cllr Sara Britcliffe said: “I will attend as many hustings as my diary allows. I happy to take on Graham Jones in any public debate.”

Other declared candidates for the seat include Greg Butt for the Brexit Party and Katrina Brockbank for the Greens.