The ACTS hustings was a great success.  The Gathering Place was transformed into a very swish set up (due in part to those of us with what my friend J terms 'anal' tendencies - everything lined up, symmetrical and matching.  We were happy!) and just about every chair we possess set out in anticipation.  We had five candidates and a deputy for one unable to attend due to a prior family commitment.  A very diverse audience from all the churches and none came and listened to all that was said.

Overall the atmosphere was friendly and the candidates seemed able to say 'I agree' with each other when they did.  The questions gave opportunity for some important topics - electoral reform, banking, asylum (sic) and immigration and devolution - to be raised.  After the main meeting we served refreshments and a lot of people stayed to talk informally with the candidates, something that seemed to be well appreciated.

The one thing that all candidates seemed to agree on - despite some quite substantive differences - was that if elected they would do their best to represent all their constituents irrespective of race, religion or party affiliation.  Whatever our views, I felt that these six people were genuine in their desire to make a difference and that was encouraging.  Their final word was one my Dad would have approved of... get out there and vote.  I am minded to agree.