More than two thirds of Glasgow’s Labour councillors have publicly backed Anas Sarwar for the party’s Scottish leadership.

Mr Sarwar, a Glasgow MSP, will contest the vacant position with Monica Lennon, Central Scotland MSP, the other candidate.

In a letter, 65 Labour councillors across Scotland gave their backing to Mr Sarwar.

It included 21 of the 30 Labour members in the City Chambers. 

Glasgow Times: Monica Lennon is also in the running Monica Lennon is also in the running

The 65 councillors include Malcolm Cunning, Labour Group leader at Glasgow City council, deputy leader, Eva Murray and former leader Frank McAveety.

The councillors signed a letter that states: “Anas will create a strong opposition to hold both governments to account. And he has the positive ambition for an alternative vision to rebuild Scottish Labour and rebuild Scotland, ensuring the next five years are fully focused on the real challenges facing our country through a Covid Recovery Parliament.”

At least one has backed Ms Lennon announcing she was contesting the leadership.

Matt Kerr, councillor for Cardonald, tweeted: “Delighted to see Monica Lennon stand for leader of Scottish Labour. Someone with a sensible approach to the constitution and someone who demonstrated her belief in public services not just with words but with deeds.”

Mr Sarwar has the backing of a number of MSPs including James Kelly, Glasgow MSP, who resigned his front bench post last year and called for former Leader Richard Leonard to quit.

Ms Lennon has the backing of former Scottish Labour deputy leader, Alex Rowley and Lothians MSP Neil Findlay a former leadership contender.

Mr Sarwar, a former Glasgow MP for Glasgow Central between 2010 and 2015, said: “Our local councils will be at the forefront of that recovery, but they have been starved of funding for years by the SNP. It’s time for a fair deal for local authorities, and I’m delighted to have the support of so many Labour councillors who work hard every day for their communities.

Glasgow Times: Frank McAveety was among Glasgow's councillors to back Sarwar Frank McAveety was among Glasgow's councillors to back Sarwar

“I welcome the opportunity to put my vision to members and look forward to a friendly and positive campaign that demonstrates the very best of our party.”

Ms Lennon is the party's health spokeswoman has campaigned on issues including period poverty sucessfully having a Bill passed to provide free sanitary products, and has been a long time campaigner on Scotland's drug deaths crisis.

Announcing her candidacy, Ms Lennon, said: “Following discussions with party members, I have decided to put my name forward to lead the Scottish Labour Party. Our members deserve to have their say about the best way to take forward our vision for a fairer and more equal Scotland. I look forward to being considered.”

The deadline for nominations closes at noon today before a short two and a half week campaign period.

The vote will be open to all party members and affiliated trades union members.

The ballot will open on February 9 and close on February 26.

The new leader will be announced at an online party event the following day.