PROTESTERS should "think twice" about attending an independence and anti-nuclear rally near Helensburgh this weekend, according to the area's MSP.

Jackie Baillie has called on Police Scotland and the Scottish Government to "ensure that there is no negative impact on public health and safety as a result of these protests", which are planned for Saturday, August 28 outside the north gate of HMNB Clyde.

Ms Baillie has raised concerns about the Faslane gathering, which is being organised by campaign group All Under One Banner, amid rising Covid case numbers in Argyll and Bute and nearby West Dunbartonshire.

The Labour MSP said: "I respect the right to protest but my number one priority is to ensure that public health and safety is protected, especially as local case numbers are skyrocketing and stocks of PCR test stocks have run out.

READ MORE: MSP hits out as Covid testing hub 'runs out of PCR kits'

"Large gatherings of people from across Scotland allow the virus to spread easily and quickly. That's why I have written to Police Scotland and the Scottish Government to ask that all measures are taken to minimise any risk of Covid-19 spreading.

"I encourage anyone who is planning to attend these protests to think twice about whether it is safe to do so and ensure that covid guidance is followed at all times."

Earlier this week the Advertiser reported that PCR Covid test kits had run out at the testing facility in the car park of the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre on Monday, with members of the public diverted to Dumbarton and Old Kilpatrick.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is due to give another Covid briefing this afternoon - just three days after her last update.

Police Scotland and the Scottish Government have been contacted for comment regarding the Faslane rally.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon to give second Covid update just three days after last briefing