STUDENTS at Dart­mouth Academy were able to meet the area's future MP at a face-to-face quick-fire question and answer session on Tuesday.

Political 'speed dating' took place in the school library when around 65 pupils quizzed candidates individually on issues from the European Union to taxation and education.

Conservative Sarah Wollaston and other Totnes constituency parliamentary hopefuls Julian Brazil, Lib Dem; Gill Coombs, Green; Justin Haque, Ukip; and Nicky Williams, Labour, came under the spotlight in the public hustings event.

Parents and staff were able to join in the debate, going around the room questioning each of the candidates individually.

Principal Nick Hindmarsh, who acted as compere, said it was very successful and had been enjoyed by all.

'It gave students the chance to ask questions and engage in proper conversation with the candidates, who were all very impressed at the level of knowledge and interest,' he said.

A group of 13 and 14 year old English students from Year 9, who are studying persuasive writing, kicked off the questions and were later joined by older pupils and sixth formers, along with 15 members of the public.

The school was holding its own hustings debates during assembly this week, followed by a mock election.

Voting in the general and local council elections takes place next Thursday.