By Steve Bargeton, political editor

NATIONALIST MSP Margaret Ewing has been admitted to hospital for tests after becoming unwell at the weekend.

Doctors have ruled out a recurrence of cancer she overcame two years ago but they diagnosed pneumonia and she will remain in Dr Gray’s Hospital, Elgin, for further tests.

“The staff at Dr Gray’s have been fantastic,” said the Moray MSP yesterday. “Their professionalism and kindness is a credit to the health service and made my time with them less of a trial. I have been no stranger to the NHS in recent years but each time I visit, I am struck again by the amazing dedication of the staff.”

Her husband Fergus Ewing said he would take time out from the SNP leadership race—he is contesting the deputy leader slot.

“It is always inspiring to see the work of NHS staff up close,” he said. “Their caring and professional approach is the best antidote to the inevitable worry we all feel when a loved one is in hospital.

“Margaret is my number one supporter in my resolve to be the next deputy leader of the SNP, but now Margaret must be my priority so I will be taking some time out from campaigning while she is in hospital.”