OTLEY will host its very own EU referendum debate next week.

The event has been organised by Otley Pub Club as a way of helping people find out more about the issues at stake in an informal setting.

It will take place in the upstairs room of The Black Horse Hotel from 7pm on Wednesday, May 25, and feature two guest speakers.

Leeds Leave EU group leader and Grassroots Out campaign executive Roger Tattersall will be putting the case for leaving the European Union.

John Grogan, meanwhile, from Britain Stronger in Europe, will be arguing the opposite way.

Both men will be given a chance to rebut each other's claims - and a 'fact checker', using a laptop, will be present to help resolve factual disputes - before the debate is opened to the floor.

Otley Pub Club member Matt Hardin, who will chair the debate, said: "This event is to get the ideas actively debated and allow people who are interested, but don't have enough information yet, to become better informed but in a relaxed sort of way.

"Hopefully people will be more open to do that over a few pints rather than having to wade through government papers or all the propaganda that's being put out by both sides.

"If we can create a place where people are talking about how the outcome could affect the national interest, and the real arguments, then people can make a better informed choice in the referendum.

"People can come to the pub, have a pint and ask questions - it's about getting more engagement amongst the voters."

Entry on the night will be by a one pound minimum donation, and Mr Hardin is promising "no party political involvement or bias from anyone at the top table".

*Churches Together in Ilkley have also organised a meeting to help people make up their minds ahead of the EU referendum.

Experts from both sides will have their say on Tuesday, June 7 at 7.30pm in Christchurch, Ilkley. Speakers include Henri Murison, speaking on behalf of Stronger In, and Paul Latham speaking on behalf of Vote Leave.

There will be an opportunity to ask questions and contribute to the debate. Contact Hugh Lorimer (hugh@benrhydding.co.uk or 01943 602329) for further details.

*The arguments for and against Brexit will be aired at a high profile debate hosted by Lothersdale Agricultural Society Discussion Group next month.

The debate at Skipton Auction Mart on Wednesday, June 15, titled Farming Through Brexit, is scheduled to begin at 7.30pm and while of key interest to the region’s agricultural communities, there’s an open invitation to all to attend. Admission is free.

It has been organised by Rob Broderick, a sheep farmer from Denton, near Ilkley, who is secretary of Lothersdale Agricultural Society Discussion Group, and will be chaired by the group’s chairman, Becki Leach.

The EU referendum will be held on Thursday, June 23.