An editor who left his role to launch a bid for political office is understood to be considering his options after failing to be selected.

Richard Walker has lost his fight to be chosen as the Scottish National Party’s candidate for Member of Scottish Parliament in the Ayr constituency.

Richard, pictured, announced last month he was stepping aside as editor of Glasgow’s Sunday National ahead of his campaign to win the candidacy.

Siobhian Brown, a councillor in South Ayrshire, was selected ahead of him for the May 2021 Holyrood election by the SNP.

HTFP understands he may now consider campaigning to become a ‘party list’ candidate instead.

In Scottish Parliament elections, 73 constituency MSPs are elected using the first past the post system, while voters also elect an additional 56 MSPs via proportional representation from candidates placed on regional party lists.

Richard told The National: “I was disappointed with the result, but it was a very positive experience.

“I am very glad I did it and I don’t have any regrets at all.

“The campaign was good natured and there was no animosity.”

He added: “Clearly Siobhian commanded a lot of support and I’m sure she will be a great MSP.”

Callum Baird, currently editor of the National and Glasgow Times, added the Sunday National to his portfolio in Richard’s absence.