The two final candidates in the Conservative leadership contest faced off in East Hampshire at the weekend.

The Conservatives' largest hustings event in the country was held in Petersfield on Saturday, October 19, where Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick made their case to more than 300 Conservative Party members from across Hampshire.

The event was attended by former Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt, who lost her seat at the last General Election to seat to Labour's Amanda Martin.

The popular politician received an extended round of applause from the audience.

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Kemi Badenoch spoke to attendees (Image: Russell Oppenheimer) East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds said: "It was a pleasure to welcome members from across the county and beyond. The Conservative party is facing up to the lessons of our defeat. We are coming together.

"We saw two exceptional candidates who have it in them to not just be strong leaders of the opposition, but also potentially great prime ministers."

The two candidates were given the opportunity to make their case to the members, before answering a series of questions.

Conservative Party member and Petersfield branch chairman Paul Milner said: "Both candidates really brought their A-game to the evening. Their speeches were absorbing and they deftly answered some really tough questions.

"I actually came into the event leaning towards one candidate but by the end I had changed my vote. I will though be happy whatever the outcome."

The winner of the leadership contest will be announced by Conservative Central HQ on Saturday, November 2.