BIG hitters from both sides of the European Union referendum debate came head-to-head at the University of Reading last night.

Staged in front of a packed out Students' Union, Remain campaigner, comedian and marathon runner Eddie Izzard took on Daniel Hannan, Conservative MEP for the South East.

The debate formed the second leg of Mr Izzard's Stand Up For Europe campaign in which he will travel to 31 different cities and towns across the UK in 31 days.

The two parties came at the issue from different perspectives, with Mr Hannan's arguments largely revolving around sovereignty and economics, with Mr Izzard's cause resting on emotional and social grounds.

Speaking before the debate, Mr Izzard, who wore a bright pink, almost raspberry coloured beret and held a leather bag, said: “Mostly I want people to register to vote.

“People fought and died for the vote and I don't think people should let others choose the future for them.

“I am arguing from a humanitarian point of view. I think as countries and people we are able to live and work together.”

Despite having arrived home from Brussels no more than two hours before the debate, Mr Hannan, who often addresses the European Parliament in fluent French and Spanish, found time to speak with students and members of the press.

“If I thought that leaving would cause a recession I wouldn't be urging people to leave,” he said.

“I'm urging people to sack me from a very well paid job with massive expenses.”

Mr Hannan went on to argue that Britain, as the fifth largest economy in the world and leading member of G7 and Nato, should be unafraid to leave the security of the European Union.

The debate was opened by University Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell, with each side allowed 20 minutes to make their argument before the 500 strong audience was given the opportunity to ask questions.

The European Referendum takes place on June 23. To register to vote go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote before June 7.