A GREENOCK-born MSP and former Scottish Conservative shadow justice secretary has saluted the efforts of investigators in dismantling the Inverclyde drugs gang led by Lee Docherty.

West Scotland politician Jamie Greene has added his praise to the work of the police in securing convictions and prison sentences for Docherty, Ian Millar, Daniel Gillan, Brendan Gillan and Christopher McKellar.

READ MORE: 'A blight on the community': Police worked 'tirelessly' to bring down drugs gang

Welcoming the High Court sentencing, Mr Greene said: "Serious organised crime gangs have heaped untold misery on our communities in Inverclyde and contributed to our deeply concerning drug death rate.

“The diligent work of hardworking local officers now means dangerous criminals will be spending years behind bars.

“The onus is on SNP ministers to fully fund our local police so they can continue to clamp down on this activity in Inverclyde and keep our communities safe from illegal drugs.”