SCOTLAND'S Labour leader visited Port Glasgow to launch the party's manifesto for next month's Inverclyde Council elections.

Johann Lamont, inset, said she was keen to unveil the blueprint because she has a 'very deep affection for the Clyde', having worked as a teacher in Rothesay for several years.

Speaking on her first visit to Inverclyde since becoming Labour leader in December, she praised the party's local line-up of candidates.

She said: "We are very proud of Labour's record in Inverclyde in terms of our achievements on education and our commitment to regenerating the community.

"This election should be about the quality of local government services.

"Labour will stand on its record, as well as its vision and ambition for this area." Inverclyde Labour leader Stephen McCabe said the manifesto had been launched at the new 'Endeavour' sculpture because it is an important symbol of Inverclyde's heritage and a pointer to its future.

Mr McCabe said: "It's fantastic to have the leader of the Scottish Labour Party here.

"It shows the significance of the local election campaign and the importance of having Labour councils." Labour are fielding 11 candidates for the 20-seat council and have pledged to continue investment in schools.

The party is also promising to fund major improvements to roads and tackle flooding problems.

They also aim to improve services for older people and carers, support new and developing businesses and create more training and job opportunities for young people.

Labour have run the council in Inverclyde with eight councillors in coalition with a Tory, Independent and Liberal and hope to form a new administration after May's crucial polls.

Mr McCabe said: "We're quietly confident about being the biggest party.

"It will be a tall order to win an outright majority, and we are prepared to look at working with other parties if it's in the best interests of Inverclyde." Inverclyde Labour chairperson Paul Mooney said under his party the council had 'transformed children's education'.

He highlighted how Inverclyde's Future Jobs Fund created nearly 600 jobs for unemployed people aged 18 to 24 and added that the council's 'Construction Plus Partnership' has produced over 300 jobs and training placements since being launched three years ago.

Mr Mooney added: "We have also invested in new and improved leisure and sports facilities across Inverclyde."