Moray Council’s SNP group has chosen the man to lead the party towards a crucial by-election following the resignation of its veteran leader.
Councillor Pearl Paul announced her resignation as group leader due to health concerns – but said she would continue to represent Speyside Glenlivet on the local authority.
Keith and Cullen member Gary Coull was unanimously backed as the party’s new leader.
Last night, Mr Coull vowed to plough every effort into securing the vacant seat in the Heldon and Laich by-election on October 1.
The crunch vote could tip the balance of power on the local authority.
If an SNP candidate wins, the party will have 12 members on the council as opposed to the ruling administration’s 11.
It is widely expected that, if successful, the SNP will make a move to overthrow the current ruling party and assume leadership of the authority.
Mr Coull said his main priority was the upcoming vote, but added that forming an administration is something SNP members “would look at” if the by-election went in their favour.
He said: “We make no presumptions about whether we will win the by-election or not.
“Any election is difficult to win and we will put every effort into securing the vacant seat.
He added: “If we are successful, then forming an administration is certainly something we would look at.
“We quite often get folk saying to us that they want SNP leadership within the council, but we have to get through the by-election before we even contemplate anything like that.”
The SNP group is likely to announce its by-election candidate within days.
Mrs Paul headed Moray Council’s SNP group for 12 years, with the number of councillors rising from three to 12 in that time.
She said: “I have been very proud to lead a group of fantastic councillors, who have provided challenge to the administration.
“I know the group will be in very good hands under Gary’s leadership.”
Moray MP Angus Robertson added: “It is an exciting time in Moray and Gary is leading a great team of councillors working hard for the area.”
Council leader Stewart Cree yesterday paid tribute to the departing opposition leader.
Mr Cree said: “I was disappointed to hear Pearl had been suffering from ill health, but I’m pleased she will continue to represent her local community.
“I have enjoyed working with her, she is a real one-off.
“You know exactly where you are with Pearl and that is something you have to respect.”