As the political temperature rises for May's local elections – and a general election looms not far behind – Channel 4 has selected Gloucester as a key location for coverage in a planned nationwide debate.

Seen as a bellwether city on the UK's political map since 1979, any political shift in local and Westminster preferences in Gloucester has been found to call the national result, so Channel 4 is understandably heading this way.

Candidates hoping to win voters over on May 2 will pitch head to head on April 25, when the broadcaster platforms the electoral choices before a selected audience.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Punchline-Gloucester.com Editor Mark Owen, Channel 4 News Producer Sarah Beale said the location played a significant role in reading the runes for where the UK is heading in 2024. You can watch the full interview here:

As the first broadcaster to reveal its May 2 plans, C4 will host 'The UK Decides: Local Elections Debate' as an addition to its daily news programming – a move it says is part of its commitment to political coverage in the lead up to the general election.

With filming planned at a location yet to be revealed, a small, representative studio audience of 50 people will have the opportunity to pose questions to party representatives, in the live debate hosted by presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

Esme Wren, Channel 4 News Editor said: "We know local constituencies - particularly in marginal seats - will tell a compelling story in the lead up to the general election so it's vital our viewers have access to the main parties and their policies as voters head to the polls.

"Stimulating debate is central to our remit and we know this will be a fascinating television event from one of the UK's flagship news programmes."

Krishnan Guru-Murthy, added: "There's no doubt this is a seismic year for UK politics. With local councils facing severe financial difficulties and public services under pressure, May's local elections are the first nationwide test for the political parties at the polls.

"We look forward to heading to Gloucester to put voters' questions to a panel of politicians from all the main parties."

● 'The UK Decides: Local Elections Debate' will be broadcast on Channel 4 News on Thursday April 25 at 7pm and across the programme's digital channels. Further operational details will be reported when known, including the venue and a list of panellists. Those wishing to join the audience can register their interest at c4.audiences@itn.co.uk .