VOTERS are being invited to take Bury's two MPs to task ahead of next week's EU referendum.

David Nuttall and Ivan Lewis will be debating the issue in a special event at Bury Parish Church on Sunday, which has been designed to help voters make up their minds before polling day and highlight important local issues.

The debate will be chaired by The Rev Dr John Findon, who first proposed the idea, and audience members will be able to ask their questions to the MPs, who are on opposite sides of the Brexit issue.

Since his election in 2010, Mr Nuttall, the Conservative representative for Bury North, has been a firm critic of the EU and is a vocal supporter of the Vote Leave campaign.

Mr Lewis, who is currently seeking the Labour nomination to become the first elected Mayor of Greater Manchester, has said that "the overwhelming weight of evidence is in favour of Britain remaining in the EU."

Dr Findon said: "It's obviously a big decision and our two MPs are on opposite sides of the debate.

"This seemed like a good way to let people hear from their local representatives and discuss the issues that might make them swing from one side to another."

The debate will be held from 4pm to 6pm on Sunday. Each MP will be given the chance to make an opening statement before then taking questions from the audience.

Mr Nuttall said: "This is a great opportunity for anyone who has yet to make their mind up about this important matter to come along and hear both sides of the argument."

Voters have also been advised that Bury Council staff will be on hand until Wednesday to speak to them about any electoral issues surrounding the referendum.

Staff will be available in Ramsbottom Library, Bury Library and the Whittaker Street offices in Radcliffe to answer any queries that members of the public may have about postal votes, proxy votes or electoral registration.

Mike Owen, Counting Officer for Bury, said: “In light of the national issues regarding registering to vote, we have decided to help electors in Bury as much as possible and offer advice where we can on any issues they may have about absent voting and electoral registration for the forthcoming referendum.”

Residents can also call Electoral Services on 0161 253 5252 or email electionservices@bury.gov.uk with any queries.