'She became the SNP': Glasgow reacts to Nicola Sturgeon's resignation

Earlier today, we reported that Scotland's current First Minister has announced her resignation, after eight years in office.

We took to the city centre following the announcement to ask people their opinions.

Most of those we approached said they were shocked and wondered who might replace her.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon resigns as First Minister

Khalil Itani, 53, who works in Glasgow, said: “I don’t know how much pressure she was under, from parliament.

“It has been eight years, so it’s probably time to change leadership. I hope they get a good leader.

“If anything, all I can say is thank you for the time she has been a leader, she has been a good leader.”

Georgina Whiteley, 22, from Finnieston, said: “It was the first thing I saw, I am wondering who they will elect next.

“What they stood for, was so consistent for so many year, it will depend on what the next person will be able to represent the SNP on how the public of Scotland feel they are.

“She almost became the SNP.”

Some were critical of her time in office.

Robert Watson, 74, said: “I’m a little bit disappointed because in the main, she was good for the country. The biggest problem we had was rather than tackling the issues with the country, she focused on nationalism, and that’s okay, but we needed thing sorted in the country.”

His wife Alicia added: “I am of the same opinion, I did like a lot of her thought and ideas but the nationalism and the plans to getting back into the euro economy I had a problem with.

“We will just have to see how things go.”

While others spoke of admiration and sadness.

Ian Dougall, from Tollcross, said: “It was so unexpected. I don’t think it will be good for the party, she is the best leader they have ever had.

“They will never get another like her.

“I don’t think there is anyone who could replace her.

“She picked the wrong time, I know, we all have got to retire some time but now is not the time.”

READ MORE: From Glasgow solicitor to First Minister: The rise of Nicola Sturgeon

Rita Karkaletsou, 70, said: “I think she is a very strong lady and she has done a lot for the people of Scotland, I will be sad to see her go.

“She was a great representation for women, she took on the men. A very glamorous lady. I do like her.

“I don’t think we will find another her, she is a one-off.

“Women are much kinder as leaders of countries, men are tougher, women have a motherly kindness which I like.”

Some passers-by praised her for making a difficult decision.

Sophie Someville, 18, from Partick, said: “I wonder who is going to take over.

“I respect her, she did a lot and she pushed for a lot. The fact that she took initiative to take space and say ‘I can’t do this right now’, is great.

“If you are running a country, you need to be at the peak of your mental health.”

Samantha McKay, 18, from Drumchapel, added: “Yes, she will be missed.

“If she pushed through, it wouldn’t be good for her or the country.”