Stalham has a history of political debate.

In 1895, the Conservative candidate Rider Haggard was reportedly attacked by the Liberals after one of his outriders had struck a protestor with his crop.

His coach was dumped in Stalham Staithe and he had to be rescued from the Swan Inn where he had barricaded himself in.

Now, more than a century on, local residents are being invited to meet the three candidates contesting the North Norfolk seat in the General Election on June 8 in more civilised surroundings - with tea, coffee and cakes.

Norman Lamb (Liberal Democrat), James Wild (Conservative) and Stephen Burke (Labour) will attend the hustings at Stalham Baptist Church on Wednesday, May 24, at 7pm.

Church deacon David Child said: 'We held a similar event at the last election that was well attended and very successful. The format is the same as Question Time so the candidates answer questions from the floor, as well as being able to make a two minute speech at the end.

'There is then an opportunity to meet the candidates in an informal way with tea coffee and cakes.'

Voters will be given a further opportunity to question candidates at a hustings being staged at the Parish Church in Cromer on Friday, June 2, at 7.30pm. Doors open from 7pm.