The Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP announced her resignation at a full council meeting in County Buildings on Thursday.

She said: "It has been an honour and privilege to serve my ward and South Ayrshire.

"This particular chapter is now closed and I look forward to the challenges my new role will bring but there's one thing I can guarantee —the people of Ayr East and Ayr, Carrrick & Cumnock will always be at the heart of everything I do.

"Hopefully my links with the council will help in my new role and I look forward to working closely with South and East Ayrshire to help the constituency reach its full potential."