AFTER the two main contenders in the battle for Number 10 went head-to-head in a landmark live debate we asked Bournemouth residents how they felt about the lively television exchange.

Prime Minister Theresa May went up against Labour's Jeremy Corbyn on a range of issues on Monday night, as the two main party leaders took to the stage for the first time.

Who did the Bournemouth electorate think fared the best?

"I think both leaders came out of the debate about the same," said local resident Eugene Colton. "I normally vote Conservative but I don't like my pension being threatened, as it would be under the Tories.

"The Conservatives are directly attacking our pension, and we have no voice to fight back."

Meanwhile, James Gura-lowe, from Bournemouth, told the Daily Echo: "To be honest, I'm that busy at the moment that I didn't watch the debate.It doesn't matter which government is in, it always seems to be a similar thing."

Albert Trim, from Bournemouth, said he thought Theresa came out of the live debate looking better. "I was never much of a fan of Margaret Thatcher, but she did well for the country," he added.

"I think a woman in charge is better for the country, they take a more sensible view. Let's give Theresa a go."

Steve Shaw, Northbourne, Bournemouth, said: "I think there could be a big surprise I think Corbyn is the only one who has come out with positive policies. Theresa May seemed to be focusing solely on Brexit and rubbishing Corbyn.

"Out of the two of them Corbyn definitely behave with more dignity, even though I'm not really a Corbyn fan.

"I'm a floating voter, I lean more towards Labour and the Lib Dems. I was disappointed when he (Jeremy Corbyn) was chosen as party leader, because he will be just cannon fodder for the Tory press.

"Let's face it fifty per cent of people vote having read what they have in the gutter press. Having said that, I think Corbyn could surprise a few people."

Bournemouth schoolteacher Toni Wilcox said she wasn't a big Theresa May fan, because of her party's education policies. "I've been a teacher for nine years and we are really starting to feel to the consequences of cutbacks, its getting worse and worse," she added.

Hairdresser Olivia Knight, from Bournemouth, said: "To be honest, I don't know enough about the leaders and the general election. Each side promises to change everything, but I don't see anyone following through with what they say.

"I think Theresa May is probably doing better, but a vote for either of them will have big ups and downs - it is like you're damned if you do, damned if you don't."

Bournemouth resident David Platt said: "More people will probably vote for Theresa May because she has more authority then Jeremy Corbyn. She's been is a position of power for longer."