A CLACKS councillor says he is ready "to make a difference" in Scottish Parliament as he launched a campaign to become an MSP in Edinburgh.

Deputy council leader Cllr Donald Balsillie is on the SNP's candidate list for the Edinburgh Southern and Western constituencies, hoping to stand for the party in the 2021 Holyrood elections.

Having served as a councillor since 1999, he is looking to build on knowledge amassed over his two decades with the Wee County local authority.

Speaking to the Advertiser, he said: "I believe I have the experience to make a difference in the Scottish Parliament, to formulate policies and laws that will make a difference to peoples' lives and the areas we live in at a time when we are facing the twin challenge of Covid-19 and Brexit.

"I am pleased to have passed the vetting process to be on the list of potential candidates for SNP members to decide who is best to stand in their area.

"This is probably my first and last opportunity to do so.

"I support the SNP aim to have a more balanced Scottish Parliament and one way of achieving this is all female shortlists.

"This, together with my desire not to stand against colleagues who hold and have worked hard for their constituencies in Mid Scotland and Fife, means I have focused on Edinburgh Western and Southern.

"Both constituencies I know well.

"I have completed the initial round of hustings in both and can testify to the depth of experience, skills and talent of all of my fellow candidates."

Cllr Balsillie's Holyrood bid follows council leader Cllr Forson's announcement in June that she will be looking to become the MSP for Stirling next year.

And for Cllr Balsillie, Scottish independence is a key issue.

He said: "Covid-19 has made me reflect on many issues and for me 'building back better' is independence for Scotland.

"Only with independence can we take decisions closer to where people live and have public spending, policies and laws which reflect the wishes of Scotland's people."

Cllr Balsillie, who has been working on various council committees and with numerous outside bodies over the years, added: "As deputy leader of Clackmannanshire Council I have been working with council staff on a daily basis to address the issues we have in continuing to deliver council services in the face of the growing Covid-19 pandemic and what looks like a Brexit no deal.

"I am grateful for all the support from community groups as well as individuals in following Scottish Government advice.

"These are very challenging times for council staff and the budget that underpins services.

"The council is continuing to address new demands as well as take forward the council's Be the Future programme to transform services during Covid-19 and Brexit.

"The opportunity and challenge is to build back better."