'On the rise' Lib Dems launch local government election campaign

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie has said his party is on the rise'' as he kicks off campaigning for the local government elections.

Mr Rennie, who has embarked on a tour of Scotland in the run-up to the vote on May 4, said his party was fighting back'' across the country.

He will join local candidate Claire Graham to campaign in Musselburgh, East Lothian, before visiting Peebles in the Borders.

Scottish Liberal Democrats are on the rise and we're intent on winning,'' Mr Rennie said.

Liberal Democrat councillors and campaigners across Scotland make a difference in local communities and are in tune with local people.

We want to see an end to the council tax and have something progressive in its place. We want to transform local services to make sure they work for the people they serve.

Liberal Democrat candidates offer something unique. We believe in people and their potential. Community politics and community power - local decision-making and support for local people.

Candidates like Claire Graham in Musselburgh are a fantastic example of the people who are a part of the Lib Dem fightback and want to see a more open, tolerant and united country.

This year people across Scotland will face a simple choice. Do they want to see another cheerleader for independence or do they want a true local champion who will put their community first?''