RESIDENTS filled the pews at Harwich's official hustings event where spats broke out between parliamentary candidates over hot topics including immigration and healthcare.

The 2015 General Election candidates for Harwich and North Essex were given nine questions ranging from jobs and healthcare to the European Union and climate change.

Organised and chaired by Rev Peter Mann, the event took place at St Nicholas Church in the town, with the public given free entry for a fair and impartial debate.

Volunteers from the church asked a set of questions, which had been compiled from suggestions submitted by members of the public.

After nine questions, each candidate was given a chance to tell the audience why they should be voted as the MP for Harwich and North Essex.

Organiser Peter Mann said the idea of the hustings was to hear candidate's views of a variety of subjects submitted by members of the public.

Speaking at the end of the night, he said: "I think the event went very well, the church was packed with about 200 people.

"I want to thank the panelists, not just for being here, but for the way they handled things."