Controversial Mayor's assistant to start

Labour Party worker John Curry is due to start the controversial 35,000-a-year position immediately after next week’s Labour Party conference finishes.

Mr Curry’s appointment comes after the resignation of Ian Spowart, who resigned apparently to focus on consultancy work. Mr Spowart received 25,000 during his time in the job - but due to changes in national government regulations Mr Curry will be paid 10,000 more.

The post itself has always been controversial with opposition councillors questioning why council tax payers should fund what they feel is a political post.

Mr Curry, aged 49, currently works in the Labour Party’s regional office in Wakefield. He was born in Scawsby and now lives in Wheatley Hills.

A former electrical engineer he has also worked as an advisor to Bassetlaw MP John Mann.

He said: “My role will be to support Martin Winter by doing research, compiling reports and arranging meetings. I will also be the link between the mayor and other members of the council chamber. The job is not about me - I’m there to support the mayor.

“I’m a Doncaster man and I’m proud to be given this opportunity to work in my home town. I just want to do my best for the town that I love. As a resident I’ve seen Martin Winter change Doncaster beyond recognition in the last six or seven years. It’s great to be able to help take that work forward.”