Published: Friday, 4th July, 2008 12:00pm

Jeremy out to prove his steel

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PEEBLESSHIRE MSP Jeremy Purvis may be about to follow in the footsteps of his former boss by leading the Lib-Dems - in Scotland at least.

The 34-year-old member for Penicuik, Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale, who began his political career as personal assistant for Lord David Steel, is amongst the front-runners to replace outgoing leader Nicol Stephen.

Mr Stephen sensationally resigned as leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats on Wednesday night to dedicate more time his family life.

And within 24 hours the Borders politician had been approached to contest the leadership race.

Mr Purvis told the Peeblesshire News: 'I am flattered to have been asked and I will consider standing to become leader over the next few days.

'This is a very important time for the party and it is important to continue what Nicol has started.'

As transport minister Nicol Stephen backed the bid to bring the railway back to the Borders.

And as leader of his party and enterprise minister he gave the green light for the new £30 million Heriot-Watt/Borders College campus in Galashiels.

Mr Purvis was quick to pay tribute to his former leader. He added: 'He cared about investing in rural areas and was a great friend of the Borders.

'It is a testament to the man that he has put his family first. His motives are 100 per cent genuine.'

Jeremy Purvis graduated from Brunel University in London before becoming research assistant to MP David Steel.

He worked in various political roles for Lord Steel before being becoming the youngest MSP when elected in 2003.

Lord Steel, who is a former leader of the Liberal Democrats, told us: 'I have very high regard for Jeremy"s abilities.

'I am unsure who is all planning to stand but Jeremy certainly has leadership potential.'