COUNCILLORS had three minutes to woo young voters into taking an interest in local politics as part of a ‘speed dating’ style event.

Students from Accrington and Rossendale College then rated each of the 12 Hyndburn councillors as ‘Hot or Not’ based on their approachability, listening skills and the ability to understand the issues presented to them.

The politicians could be asked anything apart from their age, party or place of residence before the students moved on to their next ‘date’ as part of the Date with Democracy event held at Scaitcliffe House in Accrington.

After 36 minutes of quickfire interviews, Conservative councillor Marlene Haworth was voted the hottest councillor.

She said: “It’s quite an honour. The students thought I had a good grasp of what is going on now and how we want things to go.

“They asked me political questions about my plans for the town over the next five years but they also asked me about my own personal interests.”

Coun Haworth, St Oswalds ward, added: “It is very important to connect with young people. Today’s youths are tomorrow’s leaders.

“This was a fun way to explore a serious issue and everyone enjoyed the experience but also learnt something from it.”