Pictured are Cllr Karen Clark (Deputy Lib Dem Group Leader), Cllr Martin Kitts-Hayes (Lib Dem Group Leader), Cllr Fergie Hood, and Cllr Nan Cullinane (fellow Lib Dem councillor in East Garioch)

The Scottish Liberal Democrats in Aberdeenshire Council have welcomed Cllr Fergus Hood to the group.

Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Martin Kitts-Hayes said Cllr Hood will make a ‘big difference’ to the work of the Liberal Democrat group on the council.

Cllr Hood was re-elected to the East Garioch ward in May 2012.

Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie MSP said: “The Liberal Democrats have a strong record of delivery in Aberdeenshire and I am delighted that Cllr Hood has joined our hard-working local team.

“On Aberdeenshire Council it is the Scottish Liberal Democrats who are working to build the stronger economy and fairer society that we all want to see. As part of the administration we are working hard to create jobs and boost key local services. I know that Cllr Hood will make a big contribution to our work in the months and years to come.’

Cllr Hood said: “It is the Scottish Liberal Democrats who have the right policies for Aberdeenshire and are delivering in administration on the council.

“Liberal Democrats on the council have been a huge support in helping deliver real progress in my ward.

“This was not an easy decision to take but ultimately this is the right choice for me and the right choice for people in my ward.’

North Kincardine Cllr Ian Mollison added: “I am delighted to welcome Cllr Hood to the Scottish Liberal Democrats. We are working hard to build a stronger economy and a fairer society in Aberdeenshire. I know that these are aspirations that Fergus shares. He will make a big difference as part of the Liberal Democrat group.”