MSP Ewing treated for pneumonia

Margaret Ewing paid tribute to hospital staff

Scottish National Party MSP Margaret Ewing has been admitted to hospital suffering from pneumonia.

The 58-year-old member for Moray, who successfully battled cancer two years ago, is undergoing further tests at Dr Gray's Hospital in Elgin.

However, doctors have ruled out a recurrence of the breast cancer for which she underwent surgery in 2002.

Her husband Fergus Ewing, a candidate to become deputy leader of the SNP, is taking time out from the campaign.

The Inverness MSP said: "Margaret is my number one supporter in my resolve to be the next deputy leader of the SNP.

"Now, however, Margaret must be my priority so I will be taking some time out from campaigning while she is in hospital."

I have been no stranger to the NHS over the last few years, but each time I visit I am struck again by the amazing dedication of the staff Margaret Ewing

Outgoing SNP leader John Swinney said: "Margaret Ewing is a battler both politically and personally.

"She has already beaten serious illness and I know everyone in the SNP will be wishing her well and a speedy recovery.

"We look forward to seeing her back to full fitness."

Mrs Ewing said the hospital staff had been "fantastic".

"Their professionalism and kindness is a credit to the health service and made my time with them less of a trial," she said.

"I have been no stranger to the NHS over the last few years, but each time I visit I am struck again by the amazing dedication of the staff."

The Scottish Parliament's Presiding Officer George Reid said: "We look forward to welcoming her to her new office at Holyrood in the very near future."