DUNFERMLINE and West Fife MP Douglas Chapman has sparked a by-election after resigning from Fife Council.

He has left his position as councillor for Rosyth and North Queensferry after nine years and it is expected a vote will take place in November to replace him.

Mr Chapman has been fulfilling the dual roles of Fife councillor and MP since winning the seat for the SNP in May's General Election.

He said: "This is a time of real mixed emotions for me as Rosyth has always had a very special place in my life as I won my very first by-election here back in 1997.

"The people in Rosyth and North Queensferry have always been very good to me, I’ve worked hard for the area and I’ve struck up many lasting friendships from my activities in the town.

"Very much on the positive side, I still represent Rosyth and North Queensferry in my new job as MP and while my level of responsibility has changed, it’s my intention that these community relationships and contacts will remain as strong as ever."

The new MP submitted his resignation to the council last week and a by-election should take place in November, with the council expected to announce the date in the next few days.

Mr Chapman said: "While there are some big projects happening around Rosyth and North Queensferry, the new spirit in Rosyth, in particular, has been truly impressive.

"For example, the Rosyth Community Council has been strengthened following an upsurge in local democracy during the referendum last year and many of the local initiatives are now being driven by the 'new look' community council.

"Whether that’s through the leadership of Stephen Lynas as the new chair or seeing the drive and enthusiasm of Sharon Wilson who masterminded both the hugely popular Rosyth Community Market and and the Community Eats initiative, having this kind of community engagement and commitment is the best legacy I could ever leave Rosyth and I have been honoured to be a part of that.”