THE first candidate for the upcoming East Lothian Council Haddington and Lammermuir ward by-election has been announced.

Haddington resident Craig Hoy will represent the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party at the vote on May 9.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation last week of Councillor Brian Small, who represented the Conservatives.

Mr Hoy previously worked in journalism, first with the BBC before setting up several publications, including Holyrood Magazine.

More recently, he has joined the development board of a major Scottish charity, which focuses on issues such as fuel poverty among older people.

My Hoy was “delighted” to have been selected and looking forward to the election.

He said: “With Nicola Sturgeon threatening a second independence referendum, it’s more important than ever that we elect a strong voice for Haddington and the Lammermuirs who will stand up to the SNP.

“As a local resident and campaigner, I’m confident that I am well placed to do just that, and I look forward to taking our message to voters right across the ward over the coming weeks."

And he added: "Our area has a fantastic sense of community and history.

“My aim in this campaign is to meet as many people as possible to find out what their views are and what issues they want me to focus on.”

Tim Jackson, East Lothian Scottish Conservative Association chairman, was delighted to have secured “a candidate of Craig’s calibre” for the by-election.

He said: “Not only is he passionate about the area, but with his experience in media and business he can bring a lot to the council.

“I know he will give his all in the campaign, and if elected he will do everything he can to provide a strong voice for everyone living in Haddington and the Lammermuirs.”

No other party has announced their candidate for the by-election.