Former First Minister, Alex Salmond, has announced the creation of a new pro-independence party which will stand in the Scottish Parliament election.

He said the Alba Party expected to field at least four candidates in each regional list.

During the online launch Mr Salmond said “Today I am announcing the public launch of a new political force – the Alba Party.

“Alba will contest the upcoming Scottish elections as a list only party under my leadership seeking to build a super majority for independence in the Scottish parliament.

“Over the next six weeks we will promote new ideas about taking Scotland forward giving primacy to economic recovery from the pandemic and the achievement of independence for our country.

“We expect to field a minimum of four candidates in each regional list and are hoping to elect Alba MSPs from every area of Scotland.”