A by-election was held on Thursday to replace Eleanor Howie, Ms Howie's sister, who died last year.

The results were: Ms Howie 1,891 votes; Graham Rees from the Conservatives 940; Liberal Democrat, Andrew Kenton 229; and Labour's Anne Chatt 97.

Turnout from an eligible electorate of 7,282 was 43.6% with 21 invalid votes cast.

'Boundless energy'

Speaking following the count, Councillor Howie said: "I am absolutely thrilled to win this election by such a convincing majority and I look forward to serving the people of the Highland ward in Perth and Kinross Council.

"This victory is for my late sister Eleanor Howie, who served the ward with such distinction and whose hard work was recognised in the scale of this victory.

"I want to thank all the people of the Highland ward for putting their trust in me and I will now do my best to serve them."

MSP for North Tayside John Swinney said: "This is a triumph for the SNP and gives the people's verdict on the performance of the SNP in government.

"Across Scotland the SNP are winning the support of the public whilst Labour are falling further and further behind.

"Today's victory is another excellent day for the SNP. Kate Howie's boundless energy and enthusiasm will make her a formidable councillor for all in the Highland ward."

BBC News