Former Spalding Grammar School head boy Paul Hilliar is Labour candidate to be South Holland and the Deepings MP
A former Spalding Grammar School head boy who went off to perform in the West End is now hoping to represent his home town in Parliament.
Paul Hilliar, 34 has been selected to stand as Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for South Holland and the Deepings – and has promised to stand up for the area.
He is the latest person to announce a challenge to incumbent MP, the Conservative John Hayes, who has held the seat for nearly 30 years.
Born in Spalding and attended Spalding Parish Church of England Day School, Paul got into politics in order to fight for more opportunities for people from rural areas.
Paul said: “Being given the opportunity to represent the people of South Holland and the Deepings is the honour of my life.
“I was born here and lived here for most of my life, so I deeply understand the issues affecting people here.
“We’ve had 14 years of Conservative Government and in the conversations I have with people, no one can honestly say this area has benefited. Our high streets are in decline, our farmers have been let down and no one can get an NHS dentist appointment. How much longer can this go on?
“Only the Labour Party can challenge the Tories here. I look forward to making a positive case for change and working with the people of South Holland to restore some hope.”
Paul had attended Spalding Parish Church of England Day School and the Grammar School, where he was Head Boy in 2007/08.
His first job was working at Booth’s Fruit and Veg shop in New Road and he also spent many years working at Elsoms Seeds before leaving to pursue an acting career.
After a stint as the lead in the West End’s The Mousetrap, Paul said he found it hard to sustain a career in the arts as the sector had become increasingly elitist.
For the last year, Paul has been working for Labour Leader Keir Starmer in his External Relations team.
Prior to the announcement of his selection, along with local party activists, Paul has been canvassing for people’s views to improve the area.
He said: “The people in this area are some of the hardest working and most spirited in the whole country. It’s time someone stood up for them nationally and that is exactly what I will do.”
Other candidates to announce their intention to stand include Jack Braginton (Liberal Democrats), Rhys Baker (Green Party), current incumbent Sir John Hayes and Mark Le Sage (Independent).
