THE SNP will go from “strength to strength” under Nicola Sturgeon’s leadership - according to her beaming mum Joan.

North Ayrshire Provost Joan Sturgeon is bursting with pride after her daughter launched her bid to become Scotland’s First Minister.

After First Minister Alex Salmond stepped down in the wake of Scotland’s rejection of independence, former Greenwood Academy pupil Nicola insisted earlier this month that she was more confident than ever that Scotland would one day become an independent nation.

Speaking to the Times, a delighted Joan gave an insight into Nicola’s early political involvement which started when she joined the SNP aged 16.

And she insists that Nicola will put the disappointment of the referendum behind her and not only lead her party but her country to even greater heights.

She said: “I suppose we’d always hoped she would become leader of the party but we didn’t really dwell on it so we’re very proud that she’s running for it now.

“She first became politically aware when doing Modern Studies at school and she was actually quite offended when she was told she’d be a natural for the Labour Party.

“She firmly believed in Scottish independence and joined the SNP at 16.

“It was totally different back then when we didn’t have a Scottish Parliament, the SNP and the case for Scottish independence was considered more of a protest movement.

“Nicola’s seen a lot of times when we’ve campaigned at local and general elections and done pretty badly so she’s came up through the school of hard knocks politically.

“She’s always been able to pick herself up and shake herself down and her beliefs have never faltered.” Joan also revealed her disappointment about Alex Salmond’s resignation as First Minister.

But the Irvine East Councillor believes that things can only get better under Nicola’s leadership.

She added: “I suppose it’s mixed emotions about Alex leaving and Nicola potentially taking over because Alex is a first class politician.

“They worked very well as a team and it’s very sad to see him go.

“He’s a much loved politician, he gets a hard time but a lot of people know the politician but don’t know the man.

“We’re not going to pretend that we’re not still bitterly disappointed after the referendum.

“But we’re now over 72,000 members strong which is quite incredible and shows it’s still a huge grassroots movement.

“I think the SNP will go from strength to strength under Nicola’s leadership and the people will decide what happens next.”