As part of our general election coverage, Kenilworth Nub News has launched a new column called the People's Panel.

Over the coming weeks we will be asking each of our four panellists a series of questions about the election run in.

From national to local, the panel will be giving their take on some of the biggest issues coming under the spotlight.

Here are our panel's first thoughts on the start of the campaign trail.

1. How surprised were you at the date the general election was called for? Who does it suit best?

Charlotte Richards, 34, gave her thoughts: I think everyone was pretty surprised at the timing, it feels like it was called to stop Rishi Sunak being challenged over his leadership. 

It feels that it's going to be a landslide for Labour, more due to the hatred of the Tory's rather than a love of Labour, so only be good for Labour to get into power sooner. 

Clive Peacock, 82, says: I had September pencilled in my diary. Number 10 probably fear the economy could deteriorate by September so called it early and in so doing put an end to the Rwanda flights debacle.

Believe it suits the Tory Party as Reform will struggle to fill all the vacancies they hope to fill.

Labour Party will not be pleased as the Diane Abbott matter is an irritant and Sue Gray (Labour strategy supremo) has had limited time to clarify Labour strategy.

Clive Peacock said he thought the election would take place in September (image supplied)

Victoria Mier, 60, wrote: I was surprised, I thought it was likely to be the autumn.

I don't know who it suits best, but I think it's a good thing.

Herbie Midgley, 18, said: I was not at all surprised that the election was called sooner than necessary because it has been quite clear for the last few months that the Conservatives have been out of ideas and are cutting their losses.

A good example is the unsuccessful revival of the Rwanda plan (recycling an unsustainable idea).

I believe, however, that the timing of this election suits Labour best because of their two-year, consistent advantage in the polls.

The timing has allowed less time for parties like Reform UK to make a spearhead into parliament and have a good, long campaign trail, allowing Labour to mop up unsure voters.

2. What has stood out to you in the election campaigning so far?

Barista Herbie said: A standout feature so far is that left-wing parties such as Labour and the Liberal Democrats have been trying to appeal to the youth via the use of social media memes.

I feel this has made them look completely unprofessional and childish.

Herbie Midgley is a first-time voter (image supplied)

Radiology Administrator Charlotte added: How awful Rishi Sunak has been.

Between announcing it in the rain without an umbrella, to having half of dozen other gaffs as well as his inability to sound like a real person.

It's laughable listening to him argue that he's the right person to fix all the problems his government has caused. 

'Active Campaigner' Clive said: How amateurish the campaign has been so far!!

Poor planning by the Tory Party with PM placed in difficult situations e.g. Titanic and Welsh football! Liberal Democrat leader deliberately tumbling into Windermere in search of publicity.

Labour leader flip-flopping over the Diane Abbott issue - decision too late, damage is done!

Second-hand bookshop owner Victoria: It's easy to say they will tackle one issue or another, but I haven't seen anything that sets out actual actions, how they will be funded, etc.

It's not surprising, campaigning is always about sounding good without promising anything, but it feels we have to decide how to vote without any real content in what we are being offered.

Lib Dem leader Ed Davey has already been hitting the headlines with a number of his 'stunts' (image via LDRS)

3. What do you see as the biggest issues impacting people in Kenilworth and Southam?

Clive's thoughts: Kenilworth and Southam residents await local campaign to kick off as those standing are now known.

Major issues of concern remain the vast house building in excess of the Neighbourhood Plan requirement.

Traffic chaos, as a result, poor road surfaces and increased pollution make Kenilworth an increasingly undesirable place to live. Whoever wins will make no difference whatsoever!

Victoria gave a very clear answer: Education, truly affordable housing, the impact of HS2.

Charlotte had similar ideas: Same as the rest of the country really.

Cost of living, NHS, housing crisis, high taxes and low quality of public service after 14 years of under funding. 

Herbie said: As a first-time voter, I think communication between our MP and local people could be improved.

I would argue that many of the younger voters are unsure of who our local MP currently is.

This could be amended by more local activity from our MP, such as visiting local businesses more frequently and also doing public talks and events in Kenilworth and Southam.

Do you agree with our panellists? Why not write in to let us know - email [email protected]