The identity of two of the candidates at the upcoming Inverurie by-election has been revealed.
Triggered by Colin Clark’s resignation from Aberdeenshire Council after being elected MP for Gordon, the contest will take place on October 12.
Standing for the SNP is Elaine Mitchell, 57, a retired senior charge midwife. Her nursing career has taken her all over the world including Australia where she worked with the world-renowned Flying Doctor Service and gained her private pilot’s licence.
Her career began in the accident and emergency department of Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and after retiring she is now keen to take her passion for politics further.
She said: “I am a passionate advocate of retaining vital services for people, ensuring they receive the best care. Many people are struggling at the moment because of harsh Tory cuts.
“I have seen first-hand the impact of these during my work at a local food bank. Prioritising health, education and access to services will be my main focus.”
The Conservatives have selected Lesley Berry to be their candidate.
She said:“I have lived and worked in Inverurie since 2004 when I returned to Scotland with my husband and family having worked in the finance industry in Jersey for 17 years.
“Having brought up three children in Inverurie, I know the importance of good education and I am really looking forward to seeing the new academy being constructed. I am very pleased to see that some youth facilities are included in the new campus as I think Inverurie needs a lot more for youngsters to do.”
She added: “I only became involved in local politics with the Better Together campaign for the Independence Referendum. I feel passionately that Scotland should stay in the United Kingdom and I also strongly believe that communities should be run for communities.”
Other candidates have yet to be announced and the closing date for nominations is Monday, September 11.
The votes will be counted on October 13 in the Garioch Sports Centre.