On Sunday afternoon, I was selected in an Open Primary, held at the Victory Hall, Aboyne, to be the Conservative candidate for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine in the 2015 General Election.

I am absolutely delighted to have won. It hasn't really sunk in properly yet, but I would just to thank all those who attended and voted for me.

I have been overwhelmed by the amount of support over the last week. I am very appreciative. My task now is to repay the faith that you have shown in me.

To be honest, it has been a bit of a whirlwind experience, and I am looking forward to the months ahead and getting out and meeting people. I must confess to feeling a bit apprehensive about being questioned by Alan Cochrane, one of Scotland's longest serving political journalists. Luckily, all went well on the day.