Councillor battling aggressive brain tumour elected Shetland convener

A councillor who is receiving treatment for an aggressive brain tumour has been elected as convener of Shetland Islands Council.

Bryan Peterson's appointment follows the resignation of Andrea Manson who was banned as a company director over unpaid tax. Manson had nominated Peterson as her successor.

Peterson, the former depute convener, said he "gracefully" accepted the position and thanked his predecessor for showing confidence in him.

The independent councillor for Shetland South was diagnosed with cancer in March last year and has been receiving immunotherapy treatment in Germany.

Manson, who resigned as convener on 11 March, put Peterson forward for the role as convener.

She said: "The best job in the world would be in safe hands."

Peterson, from Hoswick, served as depute convener for four years. Manson said he had done an "exemplary job" of stepping in for her on occasions.

There were no other nominations.

Peterson, who is an independent councillor for Shetland South, will serve as convener until the council elections in May 2027.

Accepting the position at a council meeting on Wednesday, Peterson thanked Manson for her service as convener.

His appointment means he acts as the civic head of the local authority, and will preside over full council meetings and representing the area at ceremonial events.

Peterson completed a course of NHS cancer treatment before starting additional private treatment at a clinic in Cologne.

He has been fundraising for a "more advanced and more expensive" second phase.

Speaking to BBC Radio Shetland, Peterson said the support from islanders had been "genuinely life changing".

Peterson previously worked for Shetland Arts as the charity's head of creative opportunities.

Catherine Hughson, councillor for Shetland Central, has been elected as depute convener.