Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP Alan Brown has announced he plans to stand again at the next UK general election.

The SNP politician has represented the area since 2015.

His announcement comes after several SNP MPs - most recently Dr Philippa Whitford, who represents the constituency of Central Ayrshire - said they would not be seeking re-election the next time the UK's voters go to the polls.

So far, eight current SNP MPs have confirmed they do not intend to contest the next General Election, due to be held no later than January 2025, but widely expected to take place some time next year.

Mr Brown said: “It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent the constituency I grew up in - and still live in.

"I hope to continue to do this by putting myself forward for the SNP candidacy to contest the Kilmarnock and Loudoun seat.”

He won the seat in 2015, when the SNP gained from Labour Co-op, Cathy Jamieson.

Mr Brown retained the seat in 2017 and most recently in 2019, when he received just over 50% of the votes.

His 24,216 votes were enough to see off nearest competitor, Caroline Hollins-Martin from the Conservatives.