Stirling Council names new provost

A Scottish council has appointed a new provost almost one month after the last post-holder quit. 

Former police officer Douglas Dodds became the civic leader of Stirling Council in May 2022, after his reelection. 

The Conservative politician announced he was standing down as a councillor in early November, citing personal and health reasons. 

A replacement has now been named after a meeting of the full council. 

Elaine Watterson, who was elected to the Trossachs and Teith ward in May last year, has now taken up the chain. 

Watterson is a Conservative councillor and former bailie who recently deputised for the provost at Stirling's Christmas lights switch-on. She said: "I'm deeply honoured to be named as Stirling Council's new provost. It will be a huge privilege to represent all the people in the Stirling area in this important role. 

"I would like to thank Douglas for his efforts during his term and I look forward to promoting Stirling and our incredible communities at home and further afield, including next year as Stirling celebrates its 900th anniversary as a royal burgh."