First Minister John Swinney campaigns in Gourock by-election

Robert Kirkpatrick, who runs the Ardgowan Trout Fishery, is standing in Thursday's by-election on the promise of tidying up Gourock, keeping amenities and fighting for the town in the council chamber.

He say he was delighted to get the full backing of John Swinney who came to Gourock on Sunday to show his support and meet party activists.

On Thursday the SNP candidate hopes to join Councillor Sandra Reynolds and independent Lynne Quinn as an elected member for the town, and has the future of the Gourock recycling centre in his sights.

First Minister John Swinney talks to Robert Kirkpatrick (Image: Duncan Bryceland)

Speaking after his visit the First Minister said: "It was great to be in Gourock with Robert Kirkpatrick ahead of Thursday's by-election. 

"We've seen the damage done in just a few months by a Labour government, from the Winter Fuel Payment cut to maintenance of the cruel two child cap.

"So, it's absolutely essential that communities like Inverclyde have local representatives who will oppose such abhorrent policies and put them first. 

"Once elected, that's exactly what SNP candidates like Robert will do, and by voting SNP on November 7 the people of Inverclyde West can ensure there's a voice on Inverclyde Council who shares their values and will act in their best interests."

SNP campaigners meet John Swinney in Gourock (Image: Duncan Bryceland)

Mr Kirkpatrick, a former police officer and prison officer, said: "I was delighted to welcome the First Minister. He was really interested in what was happening here and was keen to show his support for what I wanted to do here.

"He believes I will be an asset to Gourock.

"Along with Councillor Sandra Reynolds I want to be a strong voice for Gourock on Inverclyde Council. I want to fight for the town

"For example, recently Gourock is looking very untidy and there has been no weeding.

First Minister with candidate Robert Kirkpatrick and Councillor Sandra Reynolds  (Image: Duncan Bryceland)

"I very much believe I can bring my skills in business over the last 17 years to the table as well as my experience as a police officer and a prison officer."

One of the key issues that has local people up in arms is the decision to close the Craigmushat Recycling Centre to general waste as part of the budget cuts.

John Swinney meets SNP colleagues  (Image: Duncan Bryceland) He said: "This has been a real concern for local people. I would have to look at it and the funding. But that would be a top priority for me. 

"I am also concerned about weed control. Gourock has been looking really untidy and that is something that matters to people."