Moray’s newest Councillor was only inspired into politics by the Scottish Independence Referendum where she placed a vote for the first time ever.
Days after the September referendum, 32-year-old mother of three Kirsty Reid was one of thousands motivated enough to join the SNP – and just three months later she finds herself thrown into office as the newly elected councillor for Elgin City North.
Kirsty won the seat that had been held by Labour’s Barry Jarvis until his resignation to take up a post in teaching.
She took her place on the council with 55.1% of the votes – recording a majority of 157 over independent candidate Sandy Cooper.
Following her victory – achieved from a turnout of just 20.9% – the new councillor said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been elected to represent our community – and I am so grateful to local residents for placing their trust in me and to the Elgin SNP team for all their support.
“I cast my first ever vote in the independence referendum – and was one of the thousands of people who were inspired to get involved in politics for the first time and to join the SNP afterwards.
“As someone who was previously completely disengaged with politics, I hope I can use my experience to provide a fresh perspective in the council – and encourage more local people to get active in politics and to join the growing ranks of the SNP.”
Scottish Labour candidate Craig Graham had to settle for third place. He said: “Naturally I am disappointed not to win but nevertheless proud of how we did!
“I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me – in particular I’d like to thank Sandy Keith, my election agent, John Divers and Councillor Sean Morton who have all been terrific with their efforts in helping me campaign.
“Congratulations to the SNP candidate Kirsty Reid in winning. Speaking to her at the polling stations yesterday gave me the impression that she will make a fine councillor and I hope she brings the change that the council needs.”
The SNP win brings the number of councillors in their group to 10 and will have a further affect on the balance of power at Moray Council, where the ruling Independent and Tory group had already lost two of their number with the removal of Tory councillor Douglas Ross and resignation of his colleague James Allan.
With a total of 12 councillors the administration no longer enjoys an overall majority in the 26-member chamber.