THE SNP in Inverclyde have announced their candidate for the Gourock council by-election next month.
Robert Kirkpatrick, who lives in Gourock with his family, owns and runs the Ardgowan Trout Fishery and previously was a prison officer and police officer.
The by-election for Inverclyde West takes place on Thursday 7 November and has been called after Labour councillor Martin McCluskey resigned following his election as the Inverclyde’s Member of Parliament.
Robert said: “If given the privilege of becoming a Ward 5 Councillor, I will put Gourock first and foremost in the council buildings.
“As someone who has previously worked in public services and have also owned my own business for the last 17 years, I know how to work with and engage with the public. As a business owner, I am solutions-focused and I will bring this experience to the table if given the honour of representing my home town.”
Gourock SNP councillor Sandra Reynolds said: “Robert is an excellent candidate, and I am delighted to support him. We have discussed a range of local issues already and I know Robert is passionate about ensuring Gourock gets its fair share of investment that is happening elsewhere in Inverclyde.”
Local MSP, Stuart McMillan, added: “I have no hesitation in supporting Robert as I believe he can hit the ground running to help Gourock constituents if successful.”
Robert concluded: “I am a first-time candidate and want to give something back to my town.
“It will be a strange experience voting for myself on 7th November, but I believe my public service and business owner experience will stand me in good stead to help shape Gourock’s future.”
Inverclyde West has three councillors, the other being Lynne Quinn (Independent).
Nominations for those wanting to stand for election close on Monday 7 October.
