Shock as SNP big gun ousted

The biggest shock of the Perth and Kinross count came as one of the SNP group’s biggest names, John Kellas, failed to be re-elected.

There was a collective intake of breath as it was announced he had failed to secure his place on the council by a narrow margin.

Mr Kellas – as convener of the enterprise and infrastructure committee – was at the head of many of the major developments under way in Perth and had been thought of in some circles as a future council leader.

He said he had been desperately disappointed to lose by a handful of votes but respected the electorate’s decision.

“I believe the council has gone from strength to strength in recent years and it’s a shame I will not be there to see the big projects I have been involved in being taken forward,” he said.

“I think today’s vote has reflected a preoccupation with national issues and has not taken into account the work the council has been doing.

“Frankly, in light of the independence referendum announcement, I think people were just fed up with the idea of new elections.”

Labour group leader Alistair Munro was ousted as he lost out in the Perth City South ward.

Douglas Pover, Ann Gaunt, Dave Cuthbert, Alan Livingstone and Elspeth Maclachlan also lost their seats.

I believe the council has gone from strength to strength ... JOHN KELLAS