YOUNG VOTERS will be given the chance to grill the local parliamentary candidates during a General Election Hustings next month.

The public meeting has been organised by Penarth Woodcraft Folk and will be held in the main hall of All Saints Church from 1pm until 4pm on Sunday, April 19

All eight candidates for the Cardiff South and Penarth constituency have been invited to attend and so far four, including Stephen Doughty MP, have confirmed their attendance. Wales Green Party's Anthony Slaughter, Plaid Cymru's Ben Foday and Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition's Ross Saunders have confirmed their attendance, whilst UKIP's John Rees-Evans is said to be considering attending. Conservative candidate Emma Warman, Class War's Richard Huw Morgan and Liberal Democrats' Nigel Howells are yet to reply to their invitations.

John Rogan, from Penarth Woodcraft Folk, said they were inspired to hold a hustings after one was held at Tabernacle Baptist Church in 2010.

"It was very well attended but they only had time for three questions," he said.

"We wanted to give them more time and give people the chance to see their candidates face to face."

He added that that he hoped young people would take up the chance to question the candidates who would be representing them in years to come.

"Woodcraft Folk is a charity that encourages children and young people to participate in society improving their lives, and others, through active citizenship.

"We therefore believe this is a perfect opportunity to question those who would seek to represent them in Parliament."

He added: "We are trying to generate a bit of interest in young people in the election. For many it will be their first election where they can vote, so we want them to think about who they are voting for and question those who want to represent them in parliament."

He added: "Young people (25 and under) can email us the questions they would like to pose to the candidates. Over 25's are also invited to send us questions and, if time allows, will also be able to participate. We will then try to choose a representative selection of questions. Please email us at info@penarthwoodcraft.org.uk.

"All (no matter your age) are welcome to attend."

The General Election Hustings will be held in the main hall of All Saints Church from 1pm until 4pm on Sunday, April 19.