Labour unveils new top official

A Dumfries and Galloway councillor has been appointed general secretary of the Scottish Labour Party.

Former teacher Colin Smyth will succeed Lesley Quinn, who announced last year she was standing down after having held the post since 1999.

Mr Smyth, who has been a party organiser since 2003, will take up his new role at the end of March.

Scottish Labour leader Wendy Alexander praised Mr Smyth's expertise in "modern campaigning" techniques.

The 35-year-old, who represents Dumfries and Galloway Council's Nith ward, said it was a "huge privilege" to be offered the job.

"I am proud of my record of organisation and electoral success and am determined to build on that across the whole of the Labour Party throughout Scotland," he said.

Former holders of the post include ex-first minister Jack McConnell.