TWO MPs will hear stories of poverty and homelessness in Portsmouth at an event organised by churches.

Havant MP David Willetts and Portsmouth South MP Mike Hancock will join key-decision-makers at the ‘Opening Doors, Opening Hearts’ event. It will be held between 3.30pm and 5.30pm on February 1, at the Discovery Centre in St John’s RC Cathedral, Edinburgh Road.

The event has been organised by city churches of all denominations as part of National Poverty and Homelessness Action Week, which lasts from January 26 until February 3.

Shadow Cabinet member David Willetts will give the keynote speech, after which there will be discussion groups about the issues of poverty and homelessness in the Portsmouth area. Local agencies that deal with asylum seekers and the homeless will share the experiences of such individuals.

The event will conclude with questions to a panel of decision-makers in the city, which will help to identify how churches and other partners can raise awareness and tackle these issues.

Mr Willetts said: “Poverty is one of the most important issues facing Britain today. We see it blighting the lives of people in Havant and Portsmouth. It is a very valuable initiative to bring people together to confront this difficult and urgent question.”

Anyone can come. The event is free, and there is no need to book in advance. For more information, contact Bruce Finch on 07751-351903.