Two independent publishers have joined forces to organise general election hustings on their patch.

The Island Echo and the Isle of Wight Observer – the leading independent digital and print publications respectively on the Isle of Wight – have worked together to arrange two hustings events to take place on successive Wednesdays next month.

Following boundary changes, the Isle of Wight constituency has been split into two seats – Isle of Wight East and Isle of Wight West.

Candidates vying for election in the West seat have been invited to Newport Minster on 12th June, whilst candidates standing in the East are set to attend Ryde School a week later on 19th June.

Island Echo editor Darren Toogood, pictured, said:  “It is important that Islanders have the chance to meet the candidates face to face and put important and perhaps challenging questions to them.

“Working swiftly with our friends at the IW Observer, we have been able to secure dates and venues in both constituencies – and are the first (and so far only) publications to announce such crucial events for locals.

Carol Dennett, editor of Isle of Wight Observer, added: “The Isle of Wight often does politics differently. Islanders like to know who and what they are voting for and history proves they do not always follow national trends.

“Both our publications are locally owned and 100 per cent focused on the Island, it made sense to work together to help give Islanders the opportunity to hear all the candidates set out their policies and what they will do for the Island. We’re expecting both events to be fully booked.”