CANDIDATES from the three main parties are being put in the hot seat by young constituents.

Teenagers at four Durham schools will make up the audience at a Question Time-style event, involving the city's three General Election candidates.

Labour's Robert Blackman-Woods, Liberal-Democrat Carol Woods and Conservative Ben Rogers will face a 90-minute grilling from youngsters from Belmont, Gilesgate, St Leonard's and Durham Johnston schools.

They will be quizzed about everything from local and national issues to concerns affecting the younger elements of the community.

The forum, at St Leonard's School, is organised by Save the Children, in conjunction with County Durham Participation Network, aimed at involving and arousing an interest in issues of the day among the young generations.

Clive Hedges, of Save the Children, said: "It's often said that these young people show little interest in politics, but, in our experience, young people actually care a great deal about issues that affect their lives.

"These young people are eager to talk to politicians in the run-up to the General Election, when politicians are keen to listen, as they want very much to have their views heard by our future decision-makers."

Ian Hunter, head of politics and citizenship at St Leonard's School, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for these students to speak to such figures from the three main parties.

"I'm looking forward to a stimulating and exciting exchange of views."

The forum takes place on Wednesday, at 3pm.