An independent candidate has won the Caol and Mallaig By-election, held following the retirement of Eddie Hunter in February. Local businessman, Ben Thompson, beat off five rivals to take the top spot at the fourth stage of the count. He joins Councillors Bill Clark (SNP) and Allan Henderson (Independent) in representing the ward.

Mr Thompson said: ““I am very excited and motivated to work for the Caol and Mallaig Ward on The Highland Council.  I appreciate all the efforts of the other candidates in highlighting local issues during the by-election campaign. I look forward to my new role and doing the best for everyone in my ward.”

The full results have not yet been published, but these are the results for the first preference votes: