“You look just like our new MP,” drinkers tell Alexander Staffford

The Conservative MP said he was keen to gain more of an insight into the lives of his Rother Valley constituents — and has invited offers from other workplaces.

His shift on Saturday, February 12, came after a meeting with the Wetherspoons pub’s staff, who have reported 17 burglaries in two years.

“They’ve had a really tough time at the Queens,” said Alexander.

“There was also the arson attack during lockdown, and there’s been numerous windows put in.

“I went down and had a chat about what more could be done for them, and while having my meeting it was suggested that I come back at a busier time.”

The MP asked when would be the most interesting time to volunteer a few hours — and did various jobs at the landmark pub from 7.30pm until 2.15am.

“It was quite interesting how the clientele changed during the night,” he said.

“It went from family meals in the early evening, then it got quiet, until about 100 people arrived after midnight, after places like the Slip and Don John had closed.

“They had all been elsewhere and came across as quite merry, but were all in good spirits. There was nothing untoward while I was there.”

Mr Stafford said he had the chance to do “a little bit of a lot of things” during his shift — including cleaning down tables, taking out food orders, serving drinks and changing barrels in the cellar — “They are a lot heavier than you think!”

Some of the locals recognised him as the man who delivered Maltby a Tory MP in 2019 — a result which stunned many in an area with such a strong mining heritage.

Mr Stafford said: “Some were happy to see me, others were not fans of the Conservatives. One said I looked like the MP!

“I had a fantastic time learning the ropes. Jobs like these are the bread and butter of our local economy here in Rother Valley.

“Pubs have had a hard time during the pandemic and they’re not the only industry to have suffered.”

Inevitably, the subject of Boris Johnson — to whom Mr Stafford has been strongly loyal — and Downing Street’s “Partygate” came up.

“A few people mentioned it,” said Mr Stafford. “I just said that I hadn’t been to any parties, and I’m not Boris Johnson. Judge me on what I do.”

The idea is for the Queens pub shift to begin a series of “coal-face” experiences to help the MP understand more about the lives and concerns of constituents.

Stints at Treeton post office and with a Maltby lollipop lady are already booked in. To invite him to your workplace, email [email protected].