A SERVING SNP councillor making a Holyrood 2021 bid has today dropped out of the race after having "completely lost faith" in the contest.

Julie McKenzie, a former drug rehabilitation worker, has represented the Oban and Lorn ward on Argyll and Bute Council since 2016 and this year asked local SNP members to pick her for next year's Scottish Parliament elections.

The area is seeking a new SNP candidate as current MSP Michael Russell, the Constitution, Europe and Rural Affairs Secretary, prepares to step down.

McKenzie was one of five hopefuls to enter the local race, which was designed as women-only by the party's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC).

But today she's pulled out amidst issues with the way the contest is being run.

In a statement, McKenzie said: "I have written to the National Secretary today to inform him that I have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the Argyll and Bute SNP selection contest for the Scottish Parliament election in 2021.

"Due to internal party issues in relation to governance, procedure and impartiality I have complete lost faith in due process and the concept of a level playing field for all."

Thanking supporters and vowing to continue to serve constituents "to the best of my ability", McKenzie went on: "I would please ask that respect is given to my decision not to make any further public comment on this matter at this time."

Earlier in the month, McKenzie had described herself as "heart and soul Argyll and Bute with a proven track record of putting constituent issues first".

Remaning candidates include Glasgow City councillor Rhiannon Spear, a member of the NEC, Islay accountant Jenni Minto, designer Breege Smyth, from North Connel, and teacher Sarah Fanet, from Kinlochleven.

The selection contest was delayed by the death of John McMillan, the convenor of the local constituency association, during a party Zoom meeting.