SNP candidates bid to win Fife ticket to 2021 Scottish elections

In Kirkcaldy, it’s a three-way contest to represent the Lang Toun at Holyrood.

They include sitting MSP, David Torrance, and former MP Roger Mullin. They are joined by Cllr Lynne Short who represents the Maryfield ward on Dundee City Council.

Mr Torrance has held the Kirkcaldy seat for the SNP since 2011, having previously served as a Kirkcaldy councillor.

He said: “It has been the greatest honour and privilege to represent my hometown and surrounding areas in the Scottish Parliament.

“I have worked tirelessly, and with passion, to ensure the voices of our local communities are heard.”

Cllr Short said: "I am so pleased to have the opportunity to be able to be part of this mix.

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"Because it's been a two-man horse race between the two other candidates, it's opened up the opportunity to have a woman's voice.

"As you've got a long-standing MSP in David Torrance, I'm a councillor and Roger was an MP, it shows a great mix of elected office and that we have a right and a place to be heard and bring our thoughts and ideas to the area.

Serving as an MP for two years, Mr Mullin's stint as MP n came to an end in 2017 when he was defeated by Labour’s Lesley Laird.

Announcing his intention to contest the Kirkcaldy seat, he said: "We live in very different times, with huge challenges ahead.

"But we also face the opportunity of achieving Scottish Independence, so long as we marshal the most effective voices in its cause.

"I have a track record of helping develop and influence national policies, as well as serving local constituents. Both are needed at the current time."

In North-East Fife, the party's candidates include Nadia El- Nakla, who is a caseworker for Dundee East MSP Shona Robison.

Also seeking the nomination are Ross Cunningham, Rhuaraidh Fleming, Stefan Hoggan-Radu and Chris Hanlon.

Mr Hanlon is also shortlisted for the Dunfermline seat where he is up against Shirley Anne-Somerville MSP, and Robert Thompson.

Electronic ballots will open for local SNP members on October 23, with paper ballots sent to eligible members at the same time.

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