Richard Baker leaves Holyrood ahead of elections to work on policy with Age Scotland.

A Labour politician has quit the Scottish Parliament to take up a role with Age Scotland.

Richard Baker, a North East list MSP, has surprised colleagues by declaring he will stand down ahead of May’s Holyrood elections.

He will take up a role as the charity's early stages dementia policy officer, having previously worked for Help The Aged.

Dundee councillor Lesley Brennan — the next person on the North East list — will replace him.

I am delighted to start a new challenge with a charity which does so much for older people in Scotland

Richard Baker MSP

Baker said: "Having worked for Help the Aged before I was elected, I am particularly delighted to start a new challenge with a charity which does so much for older people in Scotland.

"I want to thank members again for their support over the years and my colleagues in parliament. I am delighted the final leader I have served under is one of our own from the North East.

"I was pleased to support Kez (Kezia Dugdale) not only as a friend but for the great ability she brings to her role and know you will support her and the rest of the team in the months ahead."

Scottish Labour leader Ms Dugdale said: "Richard Baker is a good friend and we will be sad to see him leave Holyrood. Parliament's loss is Age Scotland's gain. He has been a strong advocate for the North East and a source of great support for me personally throughout the years.

"I wish Richard all the best in his new role, and know that he will be a major asset to the vital campaign work of ensuring older people get the best from our government."