RISING SNP star Máiri McAllan is considering whether to enter the race to replace Nicola Sturgeon as party leader and first minister, our sister title The National understands.

She currently serves as environment minister - where her remit includes forestry - and at just 30 is the youngest person to hold a ministerial post within the Scottish Government.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon: Assessing forestry under SNP's long-serving FM

A source close to McAllan told the paper the Clydesdale MSP was pondering what part she might play in the post-Sturgeon SNP after the First Minister’s shock resignation earlier this week.

They said: “While processing the First Minister’s decision to stand down, Màiri is considering what is best for the SNP and for Scotland - and the part she can play in that.”

The MSP was first elected in 2021 and almost immediately made a minister. 

She previously worked as a solicitor and a special advisor to Sturgeon. 

Others considering bids are Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and reportedly gender recognition reform rebel Ash Regan. 

Meanwhile, Kate Forbes - yet to comment on whether she will run - has recieved the backing of business minister Ivan McKee, who said she stood "head and shoulders" above the competition. 

The SNP have fast-tracked the leadership race to last just under six weeks. 

This story originally appeared in our sister title, The National.