A GLASGOW MSP hoping to taste greater political success in May’s Holyrood election has launched his own beer.

Patrick Harvie, Green MSP for Glasgow, unveiled the craft beer bearing his name at a bar in the city.

Harvie’s Hoptimistic is produced by Glasgow craft beer firm Jaw Brew.

The politician who earlier in the week launched the party’s election campaign said he was pleased to be part of the growing success story of independent Scottish breweries.

Mr Harvie has been a Green MSP representing Glasgow since 2003 and he is hopeful of increasing the party’s number in May.

Green membership has increased more than fourfold since the independence referendum and he hopes that will lead to more people being persuaded of their policies.

He said: “Scotland's independent and craft beer scene is flourishing, and it's great to see more of the industry in the hands of small, responsible businesses which put quality ahead of volume sales.

"As we look forward to the Holyrood election with our hugely increased membership and some positive poll ratings, what else could we call our beer, but Harvie's Hoptimistic!"