Organisers of a question time event in Rickmansworth have refused to invite a parliamentary candidate because she represents the British National Party (BNP).

Churches in Croxley Green, Rickmansworth and Chorleywood organised the hustings - a public meeting in the style of Question Time.

Organiser Brian Thomson said: “Our aim is to provide a forum where the public can question the candidates. The Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat candidates have all confirmed that they will attend.

“The Churches are sponsoring this because of the importance that we attach to people using their democratic vote in an informed way.”

Mr Thomson also confirmed that BNP candidate Deirdre Gates had not been invited to the event.

“As churches, we affirm the value of every person as children of God, irrespective of race or creed.

"It would be inconsistent with those principles to provide a platform for a party which seeks to divide people on the basis of race.”

The event takes place on Tuesday, April 20, at 7.15pm for 7.30pm, at St Joan of Arc School, Rickmansworth.