Former priest trying for police job

a FORMER parish priest and deputy leader of Sheffield Council yesterday became the latest candidate to put his name forward for the contest to become South Yorkshire’s police and crime commissioner.

By The Newsroom

Published 9th May 2012, 07:00 BST

Dr Alan Billings, who was a vicar in Sheffield at the same time as he was a Labour councillor in the 1980s is being supported by David Blunkett, the former Home Secretary and Labour MP for Hillsborough and Brightside.

Dr Billings, who is currently a member of the national Youth Justice Board and the Big Lottery Fund board, said he felt his work had equipped him with the experience required for the job.

He added: “Although the Labour Party was opposed to the introduction of commissioners as an unnecessary expense we now have to do a good job for the people of South Yorkshire.”

Mr Blunkett added: “I am very keen indeed that the post should be filled by someone who can command respect and support not only across South Yorkshire as a geographical entity but also across the political spectrum. Dr Alan Billings is such a person.”