DUMFRIESSHIRES new MSP was this week officially sworn in to the Scottish Parliament.

The newly elected MSP took the oath and pledged his allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen as he formally took up his seat at Holyrood.

Mr Mundell took part in a special ceremony last Thursday in Holyrood, where he was watched from the public gallery by his wife Catherine and father David.

Mr Mundell joined 51 new MSPs from across Scotland - the largest new intake since 1999, as well as Party Leaders and returning MSPs at the first meeting of the fifth session at Holyrood.

The event marked the end of a busy first week of induction, which included the Kirking of the new Parliament at St Giles Cathedral and reception with HRH the Duke of Rothesay, Prince Charles.

Commenting following the swearing in ceremony, Mr Mundell said: “After a busy and exciting first week, things have started to sink in and it's by far the greatest honour of my life to represent the area I am so proud to call my home. Walking into the chamber for the first time and taking up my seat was a really big moment for me and I remain very grateful to those who put their trust in me at the ballot box.

“As I took the oath, I couldn’t help but feel a huge sense of responsibility and I am keen to hit the ground running and start delivering for local people. Over the next few weeks, I am determined to do that not just in Holyrood but here in Dumfriesshire and that’s why I was so keen to get back down to the constituency and hold my first advice surgery on Friday as part of my first full day as an MSP.”

He added: “My priority now is to get my constituency office opened up and I am working hard to make sure that happens as quickly as possible. However, in the meantime I would encourage constituents to contact me via the Scottish Parliament or my website.”