In 2014 following the independence referendum Sturgeon rose to become the leader of the ruling Scottish National Party.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has resigned after eight years of outstanding performance in the job.

“This decision comes from a deeper and longer-term assessment. I know it might seem sudden, but I have been wrestling with it, albeit with oscillating levels of intensity, for some weeks,” said Sturgeon as she announced her resignation on Wednesday.

“Essentially, I’ve been trying to answer two questions. Is carrying on right for me? And, more importantly, is me carrying on right for the country, for my party and for the independence, [the] cause I have devoted my life to?

“I understand why some will automatically answer ‘yes’ to that second question. But, in truth, I have been having to work harder in recent times to convince myself that the answer to either of them, when examined deeply, is yes, and I’ve reached the conclusion that it’s not,” she said.

Sturgeon will remain in her position until her successor is elected as Scotland’s first minister and will remain a member of the Scottish Parliament.

Two names have however emerged to succeed Sturgeon Health Secretary Humza Yousaf and Finance Secretary Kate Forbes both in their thirties