Politics will meet reality television when the Conservative Party stages an X Factor-style contest, to pick its parliamentary candidate for Richmond Park.

In true reality style, "you decide" who should be the Conservative candidate for the seat, currently held by Liberal Democrat Susan Kramer.

The event mimics the open primary-style election in the US and somewhat aptly will be hosted by Michael Portillo, the former politician turned television commentator. In previous years the party's candidate was chosen by the constituency association.

This year up to four candidates will each receive a 20 minute grilling by the compere followed by submitted questions.

The audience then vote for the best candidate, who will contest the seat at the general election.

Anyone who is eligible to vote in the Richmond Park constituency - which includes the four north Kingston wards of Canbury, Coombe Hill, Coombe Vale and Tudor - can attend the event.

Pamela Fleming, chairwoman of Richmond Park Conservatives, said: "The open primary is all about reaching out to new and undecided voters in our constituencies. By bringing local people right into the heart of the selection process, we hope to re-engage them with politics and give them a feel of ownership in the person who will be their next MP.

"A good number of strong candidates, with diverse backgrounds and skills, have applied to be the Conservative candidate, and the association is confident that residents who attend the open primary will find someone they find compelling and worthy of support.

"The open primary is part of that listening process and will give Richmond Park a candidate who best appeals to the local community."

The incumbent Lib Dem MP, Susan Kramer, said: "I think anything that raises interest in politics is a good thing."

The event will be held on Friday 16 March at Queen Charlotte Hall, Parkshot Centre, Richmond,7.30 pm.

Those wishing to attend the event must pre-register by calling 020 8878 7866 or by visiting richmondparkconservatives.com