A THEATRE audience will be given the chance to question Ann Widdecombe MP when she appears in the region tonight.

The politician will take part in An Audience With Ann Widdecombe at the Arc, in Stockton, where she will share stories and anecdotes covbering a wide range of subjects, from government issues to the writing of her novels.

Ms Widdecombe retired from the Shadow Front Bench in 2001, at the same time as deciding not to stand for the Conservative Party leadership. She has been MP for Maidstone and The Weald since 1987.

Her writing career started with The Clematis Tree, which she published in 2000 and which rose to number eight in the Times Best seller List. Her second novel, An Act of Treachery, appeared in 2002 and she is currently working on her third.

The event starts at 8pm and tickets, which cost £12, £10 and £8, are available at the door.

Published: 17/01/2004