AN X Factor-style selection night is being held next week to pick a by-election candidate for Chineham.

Similar to the hit TV talent contest, contenders will take to the stage in a bid to convince members of the public they should represent Basingstoke First Community Party.

Contestants will outline why they would make a good member of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council before a winner is selected by members of the public on the same night.

Party agent Steve McIntyre-Stewart said he believed the event is the first of its kind in Basingstoke.

Group leader Councillor Christine Heath said: “We are really excited to be giving the people of Chineham a real opportunity to select a genuine candidate rather than the usual political party people that get put forward in these situations.

“We have had some of our own candidates who want to stand, and they may still come forward, but they all believe the people of Chineham should have the final say.”

Party chairman Cllr Phil Heath added: “We don’t care about your national politics. You must want to do good for your community, be honest and trustworthy. National party support is not an issue as long as it is not BNP – that’s the main disqualification.”

The event, at 7.30pm on Monday, takes place at Christ Church in Reading Road and is open to anyone who wishes to attend.

Potential candidates should contact Mr McIntyre-Stewart on 01256 477719 or email agent.bfcp@btinternet.com.

The selection night comes ahead of a by-election on October 15 to fill the Chineham seat at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council vacated by long-serving councillor John Downes.

As previously reported in The Gazette, the 61-year-old South West Trains revenue protection officer has stepped down because he is recovering from the after-effects of a violent attack he was subjected to in Guildford last year.

The Conservatives have selected Chineham parish councillor Paul Miller as their candidate for the by-election, and the Liberal Democrats are putting forward Surrey University student Liam Elvish, who grew up in Chineham. Labour has yet to announce a contender.