The Scottish Green Party has announced it is fielding a record 219 candidates in this year's council elections.
Nominations for the local government elections have just closed, ahead of voting on May 4.
The Greens fielded 80 candidates in 2012, winning 14 councillors - but the party is hoping to increase its tally in areas including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeenshire, Midlothian and Stirling.
Yvonne McLellan, co-convener of the Scottish Greens' elections and campaigns committee and candidate for Kilwinning in North Ayrshire, said: "Our councils need more Green voices speaking up for strong public services.
"Our record number of candidates are all dedicated local campaigners and are determined to put power in the hands of local people."
The SNP said it has nearly doubled its number of female candidates to 41% of those standing for council office.
In an email to SNP candidates, Nicola Sturgeon said: "We have a record number of candidates, each ready to work to deliver key SNP priorities such as expanding childcare and closing the attainment gap.
"All of our candidates are dedicated local campaigners and believe passionately in protecting local services and empowering communities."
SNP business convener Derek Mackay said: "I am proud to see so many candidates going forward for election, and especially to see a near doubling of female candidates - 41% of all SNP candidates - seeking to represent the party in council chambers across Scotland.
"We've undertaken a vigorous process to get to this stage, with a group of candidates well-prepared to hit the ground running in delivering for local communities."
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