WESTMINSTER hopefuls vying for one of the country's tightest seats are gearing up for a grilling in York.

Students from the University of York will get the chance to quiz candidates standing in Selby on key campus issues like top-up fees.

Despite sitting inside the City of York Council boundary, Heslington is on the northern tip of the Selby constituency.

A student leader today said the hustings could prove critical in deciding who is voted in as the town's MP on May 5.

Labour's John Grogan squeaked home in 2001 with a majority of just over 2,000.

So, with 3,000 automatically registered students potentially casting their vote, all candidates know tomorrow's meeting at the Heslington campus is crucial.

Students' Union president James Alexander said: "Whichever way the university votes may decide who wins."

"Last year, the campus had a 65 per cent turnout. This year we are aiming for 80 per cent.

"All eligible students are registered, so there is no excuse."

Mr Alexander said a ballot box would be on campus this year and buses would ferry in students from off campus.

He was certain top-up fees - due to come into force from next September at a charge of up to £3,000 per year - would be high on the agenda.

Updated: 11:06 Wednesday, April 27, 2005