A new political group has been formed in Aberdeenshire after a week of upheaval on the council.
Mearns councillor Leigh Wilson and North Kincardine member Alastair Bews this week formed their own Social Democratic Group (SDG) after leaving the SNP.
They have now joined forces with the Democratic Independent And Green Group (DIGG).
The new collective will be known as the Democratic Alliance and is expected to work to gain more influence on committees as places are re-allocated next week on account of all the political change.
DIGG was formed by councillors Martin Ford and Paul Johnston in 2009 amid the debate on the controversial proposals for Trump International’s Menie Estate golf course.
The unveiling of the Democratic Alliance marks the end of a week of developments, on both sides of the council chamber, at Woodhill House.
In the past days there has been an exodus from the Aberdeenshire Conservatives to the aligned independents – including council leader Jim Gifford, Jeff Hutchison, Lesley Berry and Michael Roy.
The surprise shake-up follows Fraserburgh councillor Andy Kille being made Tory group leader.
DIGG leader Mr Johnston said: “We now have the opportunity for increased influence by working closely with two like-minded councillors, so we are delighted to become part of the Democratic Alliance.
“We can have more opportunities to participate in working groups and sub-committees and say over our committee places by forming the Democratic Alliance.”