Thank you to all those in Edinburgh East who showed their faith in Labour and voted for public services. But I can assure those who did not vote for us that I will be a representative for all my constituents.

I have a hard act to follow in Gavin Strang and his reputation and many years of hard work were an important element in our success.

Special thanks to my agent Kez Dugdale who steered the campaign to such a successful conclusion and who was still there for us even after she was asked to take on an additional organisational role in two other parliamentary constituencies. Thanks too to my fantastic campaign team – too many to mention all but Matt, David & Stuart really deserve special mention. My councillor colleagues were also a great support.

And last but not least my family who encouraged me to seek the selection and have put up with my preoccupation over the last year, and gave valuable practical help – Brian & Alex especially. I must also mention my mother in law whose support and encouragement over many years has been fantastic – and my Dad who is the one most responsible for my interest in politics – many many thanks.