East Renfrewshire politicians have sent their congratulations to new SNP leader Humza Yousaf.

The current Health Secretary defeated Finance Secretary Kate Forbes and former community safety minister Ash Regan for the party’s top job.

East Renfrewshire MP Kirsten Oswald took to social media to congratulate the new leader.

Ms Oswald said: “Huge congratulations to our new…SNP leader Humza Yousaf.

“A historic moment in time for Scotland and an absolutely cracking first speech as party leader.”

The MP also sent commiserations and thanks to the other two leadership contestants.

Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur joined in with a message of support for Mr Yousaf.

He said: “Congratulations to Humza Yousaf on what is a historic occasion for our party and our country.

“Now we move forward as team SNP to deliver the promise of a fairer Scotland, a more prosperous Scotland, and an independent Scotland.”

Jackson Carlaw, Conservative MSP for Eastwood and a former Scottish Tory leader, offered Mr Yousaf his best wishes.

“Contesting a leadership election is stressful & winning it is just the beginning," he said.

"Scotland needs Humza Yousaf to succeed & I offer him my personal best wishes; he has a lot to do & a lot to prove.”