North SNP MSP Dave Thompson has announced that he will stand down at next year’s Scottish elections.
He has represented the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency since 2007, initially as a regional list MSP for the Highlands and Islands.
He was a strong campaigner for improvements at level crossings in the Highlands, as well as an advocate for the average speed cameras installed on the A9 Inverness-Perth road.
Mr Thompson, a former trading standards director at Highland Council, last night described the role as a privilege.
He said: “I joined the SNP in 1965 – 50 years ago – and have gone through many ups but mostly downs until eight years ago when I challenged the Highland returning officer and forced a recount which led to me becoming the 47th SNP MSP, giving us a majority of one over Labour and the first ever minority SNP government.
“I am also particularly pleased that I broke new ground in 2011 by winning the former Liberal Democrat stronghold of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch for the SNP for the first time with a majority of 4,995.
“It paved the way for the recent spectacular Westminster victory for Ian Blackford, over an almost insurmountable Charles Kennedy.”
Mr Thompson said the decision to step down had been difficult, but that the time was right to hand over the baton to a younger candidate.
“The party has never been in a better position,” he said, “and I firmly believe that I will see independence in my lifetime.
“I will, of course, continue to be involved with the SNP and plan to spend more time helping to develop Christians for Independence, of which I am currently convener.”
Mr Thompson, who will be 66 by the time of the next election, said he still had many ambitions “if the Lord spares me”.
A candidate will be sought to replace him with nominations being taken next month.