We all thought that Jasper Gerard had been adopted as the Liberal Democrat party’s candidate in the forthcoming election for the Maidstone and the Weald constituency.

Not so apparently. Mr Gerard was adopted as the Parliamentary campaigner two years ago, but he still has to be officially accepted by local party members as their candidate.

That is due to happen at a meeting on Saturday, in Rianos, 33 Tonbridge Road.

Mr Gerard has decided to open the meeting up to all voters.

He said: “In the past, this has been a closed event for members, but as we are in with such a great chance of winning here, I feel it is vital that local people are given the opportunity to meet and question their future MP.

“I have knocked on almost every door in the constituency now, but I am aware that there are still large numbers of people I haven’t managed to meet, and I am determined to put that right before polling day.”

Anyone wanting to attend the rally, which starts at 4pm, should register their interest by emailing maidstonelibedemsoffice@gmail.com

*Maidstone and the Weald is currently represented by Conservative Helen Grant.