A CASE for independence is being made in Inverclyde - for the area's next MSP.

The Tele has learned that the coalition of independent councillors are considering standing a candidate at the Scottish Parliament election in two years' time.

Talks have been taking place between elected members Ronnie Ahlfeld, Lynne Quinn, Drew McKenzie and Tommy McVey about putting someone forward to run against current incumbent Stuart McMillan, of the SNP.

It comes after the local Labour party formally selected their candidate for the Scottish Parliament poll in 2021, library worker-turned primary teacher Francesca Brennan.

The independents have been in discussions and it is understood that Councillor Quinn, who represents Gourock, is the frontrunner.

Mr Ahlfeld, spokesman for the coalition, said: "We are aware of the rumour and speculation about this. "It is perhaps understandable when you consider that collectively independent candidates accumulated approximately 4,000 votes in the last local elections.

"The independents on the council found a way to retain their individual voting preferences and having maximum representation at council committees by forming an internal independent coalition. "We vote independently and are not subject to the potential constraints of party politics.

"Our aspirations and endeavours are totally dedicated to improving the communities and people who we represent and to make Inverclyde a better place.

"The independent 'team' on the council have extensive business and community experience, we make decisions based on individual opinions and not on party political lines. "We believe that the local communities are appreciative of our efforts on their behalf.

"In terms of putting forward a candidate, this is still very much under discussion, but would not necessarily be a current elected member."

The Tele has learned that there have been several offers of funding for a campaign to elect an independent Inverclyde MSP, with further support in the pipeline should someone declare their candidacy.

At the last election three years ago, Mr McMillan became the area's first SNP constituency MSP, replacing Labour's Duncan McNeil, who retired having served since the start of the Scottish Parliament in 1999.

Mr McMillan secured a majority of more than 8,000 over second-place Labour.

His SNP colleague, Ronnie Cowan, was re-elected as the area's MP two years ago by a wafer-thin margin.

Mr Cowan beat Labour's Martin McCluskey by just 384 votes.