Young councillor takes career break for gap year travel

An SNP councillor is to give up his seat on Aberdeen City Council to take a career break - at the ripe old age of 23.

John West, who became Scotland's youngest politician at the age of 18, has decided to put his political aspirations on hold and take a gap year.

The law graduate is to stand down from his seat at the May elections and head around the world with a backpack, reports the Scotsman.

John said he simply wants to do something else for a while, and is eager to travel, see the world and take in some new experiences.

Australia is set to be the first port of call for the young Nationalist politician, who also works as an assistant for his local MSP.

He said he wanted to take a gap year while he is relatively young, in order to make sure that life doesn't get in the way further along the line.

John said he would have some regrets, particularly the fact that he is giving up his seat ahead of a referendum on Scottish independence.

Callum McCaig, leader of Aberdeen City Council, said the talented young councillor would be missed by the SNP group.

"I didn't want John to go, but from his own point of view I can see why he is doing it, and I wish him all the best."

Find out about gap year benefits.