Nicola Sturgeon’s chances of winning an overall majority at Holyrood have declined, after her SNP failed to win key seats.
With counting continuing in the Scottish Parliament election, the Tories managed to see off the challenge from the SNP in the key of Aberdeenshire West.
The failure to win there makes it harder for Ms Sturgeon to win an overall majority in the 129-seat Parliament – something the SNP had wanted to strengthen their case for a second independence referendum.
West Aberdeenshire. I've always said this is a beautiful part of the world.
Incredible result by @AJABurnett. A @ScotTories increase of 9%. Majority up from 900 to over 3000.