Fresh start as branch elects new convener

Ramsay Millar from New Stevenston, who represented Labour in the old Central Region, was unanimously elected as convener at last week’s AGM.

Mr Millar joined the SNP following the independence referendum having become disillusioned with Labour after more than 40 years as an activist.

He was approached to stand as convener by several branch members including Uddingston and Bellshill MSP Richard Lyle, the previous convener.

Mr Millar said: “I thought I had retired from politics, but since joining the SNP I have enjoyed a new lease of life and even put myself forward for vetting to stand in the council election so I may become a councillor again.

“I am delighted and honoured to have been elected as the new convener and this will allow Richard to concentrate on his constituency work, while I will deal with branch matters.

“The branch has had some internal problems, but I think I was seen as someone with experience of dealing with these situations from my time with Labour.

“The AGM was certainly robust, but hopefully all parties can now work together for the common good. I am very pleased the 14-strong executive includes 10 women and with nine of the members joining the committee for the first time we are very much looking to the future.”

Mr Millar’s wife Linda becomes women’s and equalities officer and other members of the executive include: vice-convener Jordan Linden, secretary Sheena McCulloch, treasurer Eddie Corsan and organiser Marina Lyle.