THE former leader of the Liberal Democrat party has given a stump speech and answered questions from shoppers in Pershore.

Paddy Ashdown arrived in the town yesterday morning in support of West Worcestershire candidate Richard Burt.

Lord Ashdown gave an upbeat speech to a gathering of shoppers, residents, and Liberal Democrat supporters.

Members of UKIP, including the party’s West Worcestershire candidate Caroline Bovey, also turned up to ask questions and hear what Lord Ashdown had to say on subjects such as the Euro and Afghanistan.

Speaking to your Worcester News afterwards Lord Ashdown said he thought this was one of the most exciting elections in recent memory before he dismissed suggestions that the Conservatives, Labour and Liberal Democrats would be unable to work together.

He also said he would have “killed for the chance” to take part in the three live debates.