A political novice will represent the One Bermuda Alliance as a candidate in Smith’s North.

Robert King has been named as the opposition contender for the constituency, which will become vacant after the retirement of former premier Michael Dunkley, who is stepping down at the end of the month.

Mr King attended Warwick Academy before obtaining a degree in Land and Justice from Laurentian University in Canada.

He worked in youth corrections and behavioural homes in Canada for four years before returning to Bermuda in 1996.

Mr King went on to become a correctional officer for the Department of Corrections and then a case worker.

In 2001, he started work as a probation officer with the Department of Court Services and is now a senior probation officer responsible for helping criminals rehabilitate.

Mr King said in a statement: “I look forward to humbly serving the people of Bermuda and I recognise the responsibility that being an MP holds.

“I am committed to earning and maintaining your trust through honesty and integrity in the fulfilment of my duties.”

Mr King has served as a shop steward and is a former chairman of a division of the Bermuda Public Services Union, where he advocated for fair treatment and accountability for workers and the organisation.

He is the deputy chairman of the Committee of 25, which aims to support children with special or medical needs, and a certified divorce coach as well as a trainer for Scars, the child sexual abuse prevention charity.

Describing Mr King as “a fantastic addition to our growing team”, Jarion Richardson, the leader of the OBA, said: “I am excited that Robert has joined our team. He brings a clear vision of a prosperous Bermuda.

“He has a depth of experience in helping people in their worst days and guiding them to better tomorrows.

“He’s going to make the difference that Bermudians want to see.”