A BROADCASTER and columnist has signalled his support for the Alba Party less than 24 hours before the Scottish Parliament election on May 6.

A columnist for the Dundee Courier and BBC Scotland broadcaster, Jim Spence ruled out standing for election for Alba last month but is now officially backing the pro-independence party.

Dundee-born Spence described the Scottish Parliament as needing "fresh vision and vitality" to reach the goal of independence faster and he believes Alba can deliver that.

READ MORE: Alba project logo onto historic Scottish sites on final day of campaigning

In a statement, he said: "I’m voting Alba on Thursday.

"Holyrood needs fresh vision and vitality to help speed us to the goal of independence.

"It needs renewed commitment, energy, and vigour, to allow us to control our own destiny.

"I think Alba offer those qualities and I’m backing them to revive the campaign for our independence and a better future for everyone in Scotland.

So I’ll be voting Alba in the list vote."

Welcoming Spence's endorsement ALBA Party leader and former First Minister Alex Salmond said: "I am delighted to have Jim's endorsement for Alba on Thursday.  Jim's column is keenly read and I know people will pay close attention to what he has to say.

“He is one of a growing number of independent-minded independence supporters who are backing Alba to inject the urgency we need to deliver Independence.  his endorsement is yet another example of ALBA rising across the country.”