LOCAL parliamentary candidates will be quizzed on their plans to support women at an event in Dorchester.

The Women's Action Network Dorset (WAND) has organised a Question Time style debate at the county town's Corn Exchange this Friday.

The event will see the candidates from all the major political parties front up to questions about what they will do for women if they are voted into parliament in the general election this May.

The event will kick off a week of activities to mark Dorset Women's Week, culminating in a Dorset Women's Day event in Dorchester on Saturday, March 14.

The Corn Exchange event on Friday will start at 8pm, with doors opening at 7.30pm.

Conservative MP Oliver Letwin, Labour candidate Rachel Rogers, UKIP's David Glossop, Peter Barton from the Green Party and Liberal Democrat candidate Ros Kayes have all confirmed that they will be attending the debate.

The event will give the audience the chance to put their questions to the candidates, so they can explain what they are planning to do for women in Dorset.

Topics that may be covered on the night include equal pay, women's representation, childcare and health.

As well as discussing Dorset issues, the audience can also ask questions reflecting national issues.

The debate will be chaired by local radio presenter Katie Martin, who said she was looking forward to the evening.

Katie said: "It’s great to be involved in an event such as this, where women from all walks of life can make their voices heard, and for those in the positions of power in our community to put the issues that matter to women in Dorset at the top of the agenda."

The event is free but booking is essential.

To reserve your free ticket call 01305 252204 or visit wandwomen.org.uk For a chance to get involved you can also submit a question by 4pm today via the WAND website.

Any additional candidates who are planning to stand in West Dorset who would like to be included on the panel are also asked to email wanddorset@gmail.com Further information is also available on the WAND website about all the other activities that are taking place during Dorset Women’s week.