Labour's Tom Greatrex has been elected as MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, taking over from incumbent Tommy McAvoy, who stood down at this election.

Mr McAvoy, the longest serving government whip, is standing down stating it is “the best thing for the local party and [his] family.” The area has staunchly Labour since 1964.

Mr Greatrex, 35, is married with twin daughters. He lives in Cambuslang.

Mr Greatrex has previously been Director of Corporate Affairs for NHS 24, and a chief officer in East Dunbartonshire Council.  He also worked five years as an official for the GMB Union.

IN DETAIL

• Rutherglen and West Hamilton Election 2010 Result

For the last three years, he has been a policy adviser to Labour Secretaries of State for Scotland, including Des Browne. He also spent a year as an advisor to the Chief Whip in the House Commons.