CAMPAIGNING in the Vale of York burst into life as a row broke out over a missed meeting.
The previously quiet election trail turned controversial after Conservative Anne McIntosh failed to attend the only pre-poll day hustings for all three candidates.
Her rivals, Liberal Democrat Jeremy Wilcock and Labour's David Scott, attended the meeting at Haxby and Wigginton Methodist Church.
Ms McIntosh said she had told organisers she could not attend in advance, and claimed she was not offered an alternative date.
But Mr Wilcock said no apologies were given for her not making the forum, prompting cries of "shame" among the audience of more than 120 on Sunday.
Attacking the Tory as "arrogant", he said: "What possible justification can she have had for staying away?"
Ms McIntosh denied she had been complacent, and said she told organisers on three occasions she could not attend due to a family commitment.
Updated: 13:38 Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article