The Doncaster family connections of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer

That’s because the politician has strong family connections with the town and has been a regular visitor here over the years, not only for family occasions but also trips to Doncaster Racecourse.

Sir Keir’s wife Victoria comes from Doncaster and his late mother in law Barbara lived in the town before her death earlier this year.

He recently returned to the town to make a key speech outside Doncaster’s as yet unfinished Danum Gallery on Chequer Road.

In an online broadcast, his first conference speech as Labour leader, he set out his vision for the UK and urged voters to "take another look at Labour", adding: "We are under new leadership."

Arriving accomanied by Doncaster’s mayor Ros Jones, he opened his speech outlining his Doncaster connections, in front of the facade of what was once the Doncaster Girls High School.

He said: “I’m delighted that we’re here in Doncaster. My wife’s mum was born and grew up here – just next to the racecourse. We’re regulars here. Visiting family friends but also to go to the Leger. Though of course sadly not this year.”.

His mother in law died in February as a resuly of an accident which hospitalised her two weeks earlier.

Sir Keir’s wife, Lady Victoria, is a solicitor - and the pair married in 2007.

Intensely private, the pair reportedly live together in their £1.75 million house in Camden, North London with their two children.