Ukip leader Nigel Farage plans return to campaign trail in Scotland - despite hostile reception

Protesters heckle Ukip leader Nigel Farage in Edinburgh (PA)

Ukip leader Nigel Farage intends to return to campaign in Scotland, undaunted by his recent hostile reception in an Edinburgh pub.

The MEP wants to come back to help raise the party profile in the Aberdeen Donside by-election for the Scottish Parliament, a party spokesman said.

Mr Farage also plans to visit Orkney in August, although dates are not confirmed.

The Northern Isles have a "solid" branch of support for Ukip, according to the spokesman.

Mr Farage was involved in a public confrontation when he held a press conference in The Canons' Gait pub in the Royal Mile near the Scottish Parliament on May 16.

He intended to promote his Donside candidate Otto Inglis but the event was cut short when protesters mobbed the room.

Mr Farage tried to leave by taxi but protesters blocked its path and he was forced to return to the pub. Police then barricaded the doors until a riot van came to his aid.

On the prospect of return visits, the Ukip spokesman said: "He has told me he is planning to. As to Orkney, the plan is August but again, no confirmed dates."

The Aberdeen Donside by-election takes place on Thursday June 20. The seat was made vacant by the death of SNP MSP Brian Adam.

PA