JOHN SWINNEY looks set to be crowned SNP leader and first minister after the campaign of rival Kate Forbes ended before it began.

One week after Humza Yousaf announced the sacking of Scottish Green ministers from his cabinet, a move which led to his resignation, Mr Swinney has emerged as the only contender to replace him.

Mr Swinney had been thought to be winding down his political career after 25 years in Holyrood as caring responsibilities for his wife, who lives with multiple sclerosis, have grown.