Paul Whitlock is a committed local resident with a long history of community involvement in Hamworthy and the wider Poole area. He has lived in Hamworthy since 1988 and has spent much of his working life serving local schools and supporting the community around Turlin Moor. He is standing for Hamworthy East Ward as a Poole People – independent and local candidate.   

Paul’s working life has been closely tied to the local area. After earlier roles in construction and builders’ merchants, he became Caretaker Site Manager at Turlin Moor School, later Bayside Academy, where he served for 26 years before retiring in 2024. He also served for many years as a school governor, continuing his involvement even after retirement as a community governor.   

Community service has always been a major part of Paul’s life. He comes from a family with strong community values and has been involved in local events, school initiatives and neighbourhood projects for many years. One notable example was his involvement in the Turlin Moor Big Adventure, which helped secure lottery funding for practical improvements in the area, including paths, benches, bins, youth shelters and play facilities, many of which are still benefiting residents today. 

Paul is standing because he cares deeply about the future of Poole and wants to help restore pride in the town. He believes Poole has enormous strengths, from its harbour and public spaces to its local communities, and wants to see those assets promoted and improved for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. His priorities include supporting activities on Poole Quay and High Street, respecting Poole’s heritage, improving street cleanliness, protecting open spaces and local facilities, and encouraging a stronger sense of community in Hamworthy.   

Paul believes local councillors should work for the people they represent, not simply follow the direction of larger party structures. His focus is on practical local action, community pride and standing up for the interests of Hamworthy and Poole.