THE two men hoping to become the new leader of the Liberal Democrat party went head to head in Bolton.

Tim Farron and Norman Lamb were quizzed by more than 100 party members at the Ukrainian Club in Castle Street.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP and former party president Mr Farron and ex-health minister Mr Lamb, who represents North Norfolk, delivered speeches before members were allowed to ask questions.

The candidates are vying to replace Nick Clegg as leader at the election on July 16.

Speaking about the hustings event, Bolton Liberal Democrat leader Roger Hayes said: "I think it went very well. We heard two very good speeches and some really interesting questions.

"What came across was that we have two very different candidates with different qualities and different personalities.

"After the hustings, I am now about 90 per cent sure of who I will be voting for, which is the purpose of these events."