Plymouth Lives: Luke Pollard

Plymouth-born Luke Pollard is the Labour Party's parliamentary candidate for the Plymouth Sutton and Devonport seat.

Name: Luke Pollard

And what do you do?: Labour and Co-operative Parliamentary Candidate for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport - a long way of saying I’m running to be Plymouth’s next Member of Parliament.

How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

Proud Plymothian, Labour, hockey player.

How would you describe Plymouth in 5 words?

Best place in the world.

What brought you to Plymouth?

I was born and live in Plymouth. My Dad worked in the dockyard and my mum worked at Marjon so Plymouth is in my blood.

Which part of Plymouth is home?

Peverell.

Favourite place in (or near) Plymouth?

It has to be Plymouth Hoe. Whether it's raining or sunny, there is no better view in the city.

Favourite Plymouth event?

The annual fireworks are always brilliant, but watching Le Navet Bete perform at the Barbican Theatre is my must-attend recommendation - superb comedy in a great local theatre. Their Christmas Show is a festive favourite.

What was the last live performance you saw in Plymouth and where did you see it?

2 Houses at the Barbican Theatre; a moving production by local teenagers about poverty and inequality in Plymouth - superb local talent with an important message.

Favourite place to eat out in or near Plymouth?

Plymouth’s got so many excellent places to eat now; we really are experiencing a culinary renaissance. My favourite places are Rock Salt near to Labour’s offices off Union Street and Royal William Yard. Jolly Jacks at the Mayflower Marina also does some great food and I do enjoy English-sized Tapas at Lorenzos behind the Theatre Royal.

Best coffee (or tea) in town?

I quite like Americanos near Drake Circus for a city centre caffeine fix although there’s El Café on the Hoe which has a view that’s second to none, friendly staff and a great cuppa.

Favourite pub?

Tricky one. The Fortescue on Mutley Plain is my local and has a superb selection of good ales. Seco Lounge at RWY for drinks in the sun; Hawkins for the pool table; comedy on Sundays at the Maritime on the Barbican and New Year at the Artillery Arms in Stonehouse.

Favourite locally produced food or drink?

My little sister sells honey from local bee hives which is pretty fantastic. So is the fresh bread at the Bakery in Royal William Yard.

Favourite shop?

My local Co-op in Hyde Park is probably the shop I visit the most. Trerise Gallery on the Hoe near the Wedding Cake is the place where I feel most tempted to spend money though - fantastic local affordable art.

Favourite shopping area?

City Centre.

Plymouth Argyle or Plymouth Albion?

As a local lad I support both teams but I go to more Argyle games.

Beach or moors?

Moors. Big fan of walking on Dartmoor to unwind.

What or where is Plymouth's best kept secret?

Devonport Column. It has just re-opened after many years of being off limits to local people. The view from the top of the column is incredible and at only £2.50 for adults and £1 for kids, is a bargain.

What one change would you like to see in Plymouth?

Only one? I campaign for more jobs, better and more affordable housing, a better NHS and regeneration across the city as Labour’s Parliamentary candidate. It’s hard to pick just one improvement but I’m excited about the potential of the city and its people to achieve more.

Who is your local hero or heroine?

Michael Foot - a true Plymouth giant. One of the reasons I’m proud to be part of the Michael Foot Memorial Appeal that is fundraising to create a lasting memorial in Freedom Fields Park to Michael Foot.

Do you belong to any local clubs or societies?

As well as being the Parliamentary Candidate for Labour, locally I organise all the campaigning in the south of the city which keeps me pretty busy.

What are you up to next?

As a newly selected parliamentary candidate I’m building a campaign that puts Plymouth first. That means campaigning on issues that matter to our city: jobs, homes, defence and the NHS. You can find me campaigning on the doors or tweeting at twitter.com/lukepollard

Our thanks to Luke. Plymouth Lives is a regular feature for The Plymouth Daily. If you would like to take part, send your answers via email to matthew@thedailyuk.com.