A Moray man is campaigning to become the region’s first Scottish Green Party councillor in May’s local authority elections.
James Mackessack-Leitch has previously contested both Westminster and council elections for the party, but is yet to have success at the polls.
Mr Mackessack-Leitch, who lives at his family farm near Alves, finished a distant last when he contested the Heldon and Laich ward in a by-election in October 2015.
He received 192 votes, in comparison to eventual winner Dennis Slater’s 1,775.
But with the council chambers poised to undergo a mass exodus of veteran members later this year, Mr Mackessack-Leitch predicted that times of “sweeping change” lie ahead.
He said: “My aim is to push for a transformation in thinking about how the council goes about its daily business.
“It’s not just about cutting budgets and slashing services, we need more creative and community-led solutions for a sustainable long term plan.
“I know I can bring the fresh perspective and ideas that the council so badly needs.”
Scottish Greens Highlands and Islands MSP, John Finnie, backed Mr Mackessack-Leitch’s candidacy.
Mr Finnie said: “I’ve known James for several years and I am aware of his commitment to Moray and its wellbeing.
“He is a seasoned community activist and campaigner, and the type of enthusiastic councillor I’d want working for me and my community.”
The 30-year-old was a leading protestor against Moray Council plans to create a Western Link Road through residential areas of Elgin, which were thrown out last year.
The Moray Greens group is planning to field more candidates for May’s election, and says other announcements will be forthcoming.
