Republican Bill Cleaveland of Botetourt and Democrat Gwen Mason of Roanoke are gearing up for the first forum of their 17 District state House race tonight at 7 at the Holiday Inn Tanglewood.

They are seeking the House of Delegates seat now held by Del. William Fralin, R-Roanoke, who is retiring. It includes two precincts in Southwest Roanoke County — Cloverdale and Coyner Springs — along with parts of Roanoke and Roanoke County.

The rest of Botetourt County is represented by Del. Lacey Putney, I-Bedford, who is being challenged by Democrat Lewis Medlin and Will Smith of the Constitution Party.

For more on the upcoming debate, click here.