OVER 1000 member of Scottish Labour have ditched the party in the last six months, according to newly published membership data.

According to research by The Times, it is believed that the party's stance on Brexit, as well as issues with both Jeremy Corbyn and Richard Leonard, have contributed to the mass exodus.

Areas such as the Lothians saw up to a 9 per cent decrease in membership numbers since June of last year.

While Corbyn's unwillingness to back a second EU referendum has played a role, almost half of those leaving the party are allegedly in Glasgow constituencies, and have pointed to Richard Leonard's leadership victory over Anas Sarwar as a reason to leave.

Former deputy leader of Edinburgh City Council, Susan Dalgety, also cited concerns over leadership when she left the party last year.

Dalgety said: “We should be standing up for the 48% of people across the UK and 62 per cent in Scotland, who voted to stay in Europe. Labour’s current policy on Brexit is as confused as the Tories.

“I believe I am not alone in these views, so sadly I am not surprised there has been a big drop off in membership. I am saddened, but not surprised.”

Speaking to The Times, SNP MSP Gordon MacDonald said: “At every turn, the Labour party has failed to stand up to the Tories over Brexit. With Labour floundering in a distant third place in the polls, it’s clear they’re paying a heavy price for letting the Tories trash Scotland’s economy.

“No wonder their members are in despair, and leaving the party in droves.”