A TV BREAKFAST programme was broadcast live from a coffee shop in Horwich.

The Thyme Deli, in Winter Hey Lane, opened its doors at 6am for BBC camera crews and early bird customers.

BBC presenter Bill Turnbull discussed election issues, including how the Westminster expenses scandal could influence voters, with BBC Radio Manchester’s Andy Crane, politics lecturer Jane Green and marketing expert Jonathan Gabay.

Bolton West is considered to be a key marginal constituency, with Labour holding a 2,000 majority.

Labour’s Ruth Kelly is stepping down and candidate Julie Hilling hopes to succeed her. The Conservative candidate is Susan Williams and the Lib- Dem is Jackie Pearcey.

In the last election, 40,543 votes were cast in the seat, with Labour gaining 17,239 and the Conservatives 15,175.

Mr Turnbull said: “We are doing a tour of the country. Bolton West is a crucial target seat.

“There are issues with trust following the expenses scandal, but I have found that, while that has made people angry, they seem to be giving the candidates a clean slate.”

Cafe owner Amanda Biggs said: “It has been an early start but many of the regular customers support it, which is great.

I have not decided how to vote yet. The policies I have heard so far have been confusing and they seem to be saying what people want to hear. I think we need to get below the surface.”

A group for Claremont Church in Bolton meets at the coffee shop each Tuesday.

Yesterday, it met earlier than usual for the broadcast.

Lesley Powell, aged 59, of Stocks Park Drive, said: “I have not decided who to vote for yet but I will be particularly interested in business rates as I own a pet shop.

“I will probably vote Conservative because I think we need a change.”

Kevan Davies, aged 67, of Melbourne Grove, Horwich, said: “I don’t trust any of them. In the Labour manifesto, they are making promises but they are the same promises last time and the time before.”

Zoe Fitzsimmons, aged 25, of Horwich, said: “I am just about to finish training as a midwife but there are no jobs in the North West. What the parties have to say about the NHS will probably sway my vote.”