THE National and Sunday National’s founding editor Richard Walker has announced he wants to stand for SNP in the Central Ayrshire seat at the next Westminster election.

The former editor of the Sunday Herald currently works at the University of Strathclyde teaching journalism. He regularly contributes to The National.

Walker, who founded The National newspaper in 2014 and the Sunday National in 2018, announced his intention to run in the selection process for Phillipa Whitford’s current seat on Twitter/X, writing: “I am proud to announce I have been nominated as a potential Westminster candidate for Central Ayrshire - my home.

“Looking forward to meeting as many people as possible at upcoming hustings. I’ll be seeking to convince members I have the experience and passion the job demands.”

The National:

Whitford (above right with Walker) has represented Central Ayrshire since 2015, announcing her intention to stand down at the next general election earlier this year.

Hustings will take place for members this week.

Walker will battle against two other SNP candidates - activists Scott McFarlane and Annie McIndoe have also put themselves forward for nomination.