Community council chair throws hat into ring for Ayrshire MSP seat
A community council chairperson has thrown their hat into the ring to become an Ayrshire MSP at the Holyrood elections next year.
Denise Sommerville, chair of the Fort, Seafield and Wallacetown Community Council, has announced her candidacy to become the MSP for Ayr.
A community leader, student and campaigner, Denise is not affiliated to any political party and has said her campaign is about "returning power to people".
Denise has led grassroots regeneration efforts in her local area, championed neurodiversity awareness and helped bring forward "bold solutions" in energy, housing and education.
She also serves as a student representative at the University of Glasgow where she is completing her honours degree in politics and social & public policy.
Denise says her campaign "proudly aligns with the Liberate Scotland movement", an area of grassroots activism calling for change and a democratic culture built on integrity and people power.
She is also committed to community wellbeing, Scottish independence, transparent governance, and bold investment in public services.
Denise said: 'This campaign is about returning power to people. I'm not here to climb a party ladder — I'm here to help rebuild trust, regenerate our towns, and give working families, young people, and overlooked communities a real voice in Parliament.
'We need more leaders who serve, not self-serve. My salary will work for the people - just like I will.'
Ayr is currently held by the SNP and Scottish Government member, Siobhian Brown, who has already announced her bid to defend the seat.
Labour have also named their candidate for the seat - Ayr East councillor Brian McGinley.
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