The BBC’S flagship political show Question Time has never been averse to controversy. This weeks show is to be filmed in Wootton Bassett, a town which has hit the headlines in recent years because of the repatriation of soldiers killed in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan through its silent streets.

But the show has been made far from welcome in the town with rumblings of discontent as to political hijacking of simple displays of respect from the town residents.

Mayor Steve Bucknell has said this week he fears the selection of certain military guests indicates the show will focus on the political aspects of war overseas, which is the polar opposite of why Wootton Bassett residents stand in the rain and cold to honour fallen soldiers.

His wife and Mayoress Allison Bucknell agrees.

She said: “I share Steve’s view.

“I don’t know what rationale is behind the selection of venues but when you apply for tickets online you are asked your opinions on Iraq.

“Wootton Bassett is known for its impartiality and we respect those who have died.

“We have stayed out of all the politics.”

Secretary of the Wootton Bassett branch of the Royal British Legion Anne Bevis is also reticent as to why Question Time is coming to Wootton Bassett.

She said: “I won’t be going because I feel the same way Steve Bucknell does.

“We would rather it doesn’t become a political circus. Whether we support the conflict or not is irrelevant. We want to keep it personal as a tribute to the guys and girls who pay the ultimate price. That is all we want to do.”

The panel errs heavily on a military presence, with General Sir Richard Dannatt, former head of the British Army and Armed Forces minister Bill Rammell taking the questions.

Other panellists are shadow foreign secretary William Hague, former Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan and Salma Yaqoob from Respect.

Coun Bucknell added: “Neither Steve or I will be there. I believe the way they select the audience is fundamentally wrong.

“There is a risk they will focus purely on Afghanistan “I expect the people who chose Wootton Bassett thought they were doing us a favour.”