Clydebank's MSP has announced he will stand down at the next Scottish Parliament election.

Gil Paterson, who has represented Clydebank and Milngavie since 2011, said he was "reluctantly" choosing not to seek re-election.

In a statement, the politician, who will turn 78 in November, said: “I would like to announce that I have reluctantly decided not to seek re-election at the next Scottish Parliamentary election.

“It has been truly an honour and privilege to represent the Clydebank and Milngavie constituency, not forgetting the communities of Bearsden North and Old Kilpatrick, who unfortunately are not mentioned in the constituency official title.

“It has been a difficult decision for me to make, however, my own personal situation tells me that the 2021 election is the right time for me to stand down”.

“I have met some truly wonderful and inspiring people, both individually and through our outstanding local organisations and community groups during my time as the MSP for Clydebank and Milngavie, and I thank each of them for their support.

“Although I won’t be returning after the next election, there are still 10 months of this parliament to go and much water to run under the bridge before then, so I can assure everyone that I remain absolutely committed to working hard as your MSP for the rest of this parliament and will continue to do my utmost for my constituents that deserve and expect nothing less of me."

Mr Paterson was elected to the first Scottish Parliament in 1999 representing Central Scotland until 2007. He then became a member for the West of Scotland region until winning the Clydebank constituency.