Tories hold US-style primary

All registered supporters will be able to vote

A US-style "primary" election was being held by the Tory party in the North West on Wednesday.

The Warrington South Conservative Association has invited anyone living in the constituency to vote for who they think should be the party's candidate in the next general election.

Up to 300 residents, who have registered to be at a meeting in the town, are going to pass judgement on three prospective candidates bidding to contest the current Labour stronghold seat.

North West Conservatives (NWC) has admitted using this style of selection is a "gamble".

But Chris Davenport, of NWC, said: "We're putting forward three very good candidates, any one of whom would be an excellent representative for the constituency."

Pilot scheme

The winner out of David Sutton, Fiona Bruce and Chris Bromby, will fight Labour MP Helen Southworth at the next general election.

The primary-style election is one of several pilot schemes being offered by the Conservative party nationally in an attempt to involve more people in the political process.

If the scheme proves a success it could be adopted across the country.