‘We need to get back to British’: concern over immigration in Doncaster before local elections

theguardian.comPublished: 4/19/2025

Summary

Richie Vallance, a candidate for mayor in Doncaster, is challenging Labour's dominance as Reform UK gains support due to Nigel Farage's rise. The city, a key battleground, faces concerns over immigration, safety, and council funding cuts under Labour’s tenure. Vallance, with Brexit ties, aims to address community issues but is unsure about major party alignment. His campaign reflects growing public frustration and the potential for a strong local election.

Additional Summaries

“Let’s make Doncaster Doncaster again,” he yelled at passersby in the city centre, who mostly politely ignored him. “I know they’ve got to be put somewhere but Doncaster has changed and it’s not for the better,” one man said. While there was also disgust among some Doncaster residents at the idea of voting for Reform, Labour was not popular either. Most people, in one way or another, pointed to what they felt was decline in the city, blaming the cash-strapped council. They have plans to leave for a bigger city, citing a lack of things to do in Doncaster, particularly on the “artistic side”.