THE deputy leader of Scottish Borders Council is running to become an MP in neighbouring East Lothian.

Jedburgh councillor Scott Hamilton will be on the ballot paper for the Conservatives in the new Lothian East constituency.

He was selected as the party's candidate on Wednesday.

Mr Hamilton said: “I am up for the contest and committed to listening to local residents.

“I will work hard on behalf of all those living across our towns, villages and rural areas.”

He added: “East Lothian is the second fastest growing area in Scotland and our infrastructure has not kept pace with the growth.

“We need a local MP who acts on local concerns – such as the recent closure of the Belhaven Hospital and the Edington in North Berwick.

“We need an MP who stands up for local people and local issues and not another MP focused on serving their own career who takes local voters for granted.”

Anthony Stodart, local Conservative Association chairman, described Mr Hamilton as “a great choice”.

He said: “We’re delighted that Scott will take the fight to Labour and the SNP by focusing on the real issues that are important to East Lothian residents.”

Already confirmed to stand in Lothian East are George Kerevan (ALBA), Douglas Alexander (Labour), Duncan Dunlop (Lib Dem), Robert Davies (Reform UK), Shona McIntosh (Scottish Green) and Lyn Jardine (SNP).