Russell Findlay launches bid for Scottish Conservative leadership

“We must refocus our efforts from predominantly battling against independence to instead leading a patriotic conservative movement that stands for aspiration and ambition,” he said.

“We’ve got to set out a positive conservative vision that appeals to the interests, hopes and needs of ordinary people the length and breadth of Scotland.

“We need to provide tangible, practical and pragmatic ideas and solutions that will change everyday lives for the better.”

Mr Findlay has been backed by frontbench colleagues Rachael Hamilton, Douglas Lumsden and Miles Briggs.

Mr Ross has said he would continue in the role until a new leader is selected after being defeated by the SNP in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East at the general election.

He stood in place of former local MP David Duguid, who had been unwell in hospital but had hoped to run for election.