Hundreds turn out for Lib Dem leader visit

2.00.00pm GMT Thu 4th Feb 2010

Leader of the Lib Dems, Nick Clegg MP held an open meeting with students in Durham today which attracted well over 400 people.

Having been introduced by local Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Carol Woods, Nick took questions from those in attendance.

Carol Woods said, "This was a fantastic event. The Union did a superb job of promoting the meeting and it was great to see that there was standing room only, even in such a big room.

"Anyone could come along today and ask Nick a question. That level of public accountability is fantastic and I'm sure people there appreciated Nick's honesty and forthrightness. Other political leaders seem to shy away from this sort of scrutiny - I don't expect to see Gordon Brown hold a public meeting in Durham any time soon.

"The student population of Durham are a vital part of the community. They are often accused of apathy but it is clear from the great attendance at today's meeting that a huge number of them are engaged in the political process.

"Durham is a marginal seat at the General Election and students know that their vote really counts here. Their choice is between a Labour Government of higher fees and massive funding cuts or a Lib Dem MP who is opposed to fees and who will fight to safeguard University funding."