THE Wee County's most senior councillor has paid tribute to an “outstanding leader” in Nicola Sturgeon after she announced her resignation this morning.

As reported widely, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced on Wednesday, February 15, she is resigning from the role after more than eight years in office.

Clackmannanshire's council leader Ellen Forson has paid tribute to her work, especially her commitment to care experienced young people.

Cllr Forson said: “Nicola Sturgeon has, in my view, been an outstanding leader – the first female First Minister and the longest serving incumbent in the role, both of which are stunning achievements in themselves.

“As Nicola herself said, we are all human beings and being in the front line of politics takes it toll, not only on the individual but on people’s families and friends.

“No-one has borne that more than Nicola Sturgeon, not least as she led our nation through the uncharted waters of a global pandemic.”

While the announcement may seem sudden, the departing First Minister said she has been wrestling with the decision for some weeks.

She added this morning: “To be clear, I'm not expecting violins here, but I am a human being, as well as a politician.

“When I entered government in 2007, my niece and youngest nephew were babies, just months old.

“As I step down, they are about to celebrate their 17th birthdays – now that I think about it, that's exactly the age to be horrified at the though of your auntie suddenly having more time for you.

“My point is this: giving absolutely everything of yourself to this job is the only way to do it, the country deserves nothing less, but in truth that can only be done by anyone for so long.

“For me, it is now in danger of becoming too long.”

The Wee County leader said she will always remember the time Nicola Sturgeon met with a group of young people from Clacks in parliament (pictured).

“Her commitment to care experienced young people and delivering The Promise is something that is close to my heart and I’ll always remember the time she met with a group of young people from Clackmannanshire in parliament and promised to have dinner with them in Alloa – which she did, and I know it meant a lot to them,” she continued.

“This will be undoubtedly part of the legacy she leaves as First Minister.”

While she is stepping down from the top role, Ms Sturgeon made clear she is not leaving politics.

She said: “There are many issues I care deeply about and hope to champion in the future.

“One of these is The Promise, the national mission so close to my heart, to improve the life chances of care experienced young people and ensure they grow up nurtured and loved.

“My commitment to these young people will be lifelong.

“And obviously, there is independence.

“Winning independence is the cause I have dedicated a lifetime to, it is a cause I believe in with every fibre of my being and it is a cause I am convinced is being won.

“I intend to be there as it is won, every step of the way.”