A KILCREGGAN resident has become the latest person to throw their hat into the ring for election to the Lomond North ward.

Mark Irvine, a Cove and Kilcreggan Community Councillor for the past four years, will stand as an independent candidate in the December 16 by-election.

Husband of TV presenter and antiques expert, Roo, Mark will be competing against Rosneath resident, Paul Collins, who will stand for the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party and is the only other name revealed so far.

On his campaign website, Mark said: "I am semi-retired and hold two non-executive directorships of a UK company and a Maltese company. These are non-exec roles requiring only a few days per year which leave me free to fulfil the role of councillor and serve our communities.

"I spent the largest part of my working career as a senior executive for numerous multi-million pound businesses around the world, primarily operating at board level.

READ MORE: Paul Collins is Lomond North by-election Conservative candidate

"This corporate experience will be invaluable when dealing with my future colleagues within the council as well as agencies, government bodies, MPs and MSPs.

"I propose to hold regular clinics and drop-in sessions in and around the ward and dates and times for these will be published regularly.

"It will be a great chance for you to air your thoughts on local problems and will help me tackle the issues that matter most to you."

Next month's poll has come as a result of Conservative Councillor Barbara Morgan's resignation from Argyll and Bute Council.

The deadline for candidates wishing to stand in the by-election is 4pm this Friday, November 12.