LOCAL councillors have favoured Michelle Ballantyne for Scottish Tory leader.

The Scottish Conservatives leadership contest is in full swing after the resignation of Ruth Davidson last year.

Former Borders councillor Michelle Ballantyne, who is a listMSP for the South Scotland region, is hoping to fill the role.

And she has won the backing of her former colleagues at Scottish Borders Council.

Several current local Conservative members have announced they are endorsing the regional MSP in her leadership bid, stating they are drawn towards her aims for the party.

One Ballantyne backer is Scott Hamilton, the youngest councillor at Newtown St Boswells, who told us: “As the youngest member of the council Michelle has always been someone I can contact for advice.

“I believe in what she is saying about reform of the party and giving more consultation with the grass roots.”

One reason for the councillors’ advocacy is the idea of ‘blue-collar conservatism’ which Ballantyne has promoted throughout her leadership campaign.

Tweeddale councillor Eric Small said: “I am passionate about blue collar conservatism as it really speaks about where I came from.

“I am from a working-class background, but I was able to have a successful career in many avenues including the fire brigade.

“I believe it is essential to talk about how people can prosper from many different circumstances, Michelle believes that as well.”

The February 14 announcement date has led her supporters to coin the term ‘Ballantyne’s Day'.

Galashiels councillor Euan Jardine has also expressed his support, saying: “Michelle has a lot of refreshing ideas not just for the party but for the country.

“She isn’t a flip flop politician who jumps on bandwagons.

“She is very sensible and acts clearly and intelligently in her approach to issues.

“She will make a great leader.”

However, Borders MP John Lamont and MSP Rachael Hamilton have not endorsed the local MSP but have instead stood behind fellow contestant, Jackson Carlaw.

The Conservatives members-only ballot will allow a new leader to be elected in time for the 2021 Holyrood elections.