Poole People is aware that a false and malicious post has been circulating on social media concerning our Hamworthy East candidate, Paul Whitlock.
Paul has reported the matter to Dorset Police and is co-operating fully with their enquiries. Dorset Police have confirmed in writing that Mr Whitlock is not, and has not been, the subject of a police investigation in relation to the false article currently being circulated.
The police have advised that anyone who receives or sees the post should delete it, avoid sharing it further, and report it both to the police and to the relevant social media platform. Anyone reporting the post should include the date, time, exact location of the post, and the account name responsible for posting or sharing it.
Paul Whitlock said:
“The claims being circulated about me are completely false. I have spent many years serving the Hamworthy and Turlin Moor community, including more than two decades working at Turlin Moor School and serving as a school governor. I will not be intimidated or discouraged from standing to serve my community.”
Paul has lived in Hamworthy for many years and has a long record of community involvement. He worked as Site Manager at Turlin Moor School/Bayside Academy for 26 years before retiring in 2024, and has served as a school governor for 28 years. His campaign for Hamworthy East is focused on protecting local open spaces and facilities, improving pride in Poole, supporting community activity, holding BCP Council to account, and encouraging a stronger sense of community in Hamworthy.
Paul is standing as the Poole People candidate for Hamworthy East in the Poole Town Council election.
Poole People believes local elections should be fought on policies, records, community service and ideas for the future — not through fake posts, personal smears or misinformation.
We ask residents not to share the post, even to criticise it, as this only helps spread false information further. Instead, please report it, delete it, and allow the police to continue their enquiries.
Paul remains focused on his campaign and on speaking with residents about the future of Hamworthy and Poole.
Vote Paul Whitlock — Poole People, independent and local.
The Dorset Police case reference is 55260056818, which residents can quote if they need to report further circulation of the post.