A top lawyer has been named as the next chairman of the Scottish Conservatives.

Richard Keen QC, who once represented former Scottish Socialist Party leader Tommy Sheridan, will take on the Tory job at the start of the new year.

"I welcome the opportunity to assume the chairmanship of the Scottish Conservatives as we enter such a significant period in our political and constitutional history," he said.

"As we face the potential break-up of Britain, there are many in Scotland who will be reminded of the values of our party and its role in maintaining what is so much more than just the political union of the UK."

Mr Keen will take over from Scottish Tory MP David Mundell, and will step down as Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, a position he has held since 2007, to take on the position.

The 59-year-old, who became a QC in 1993, briefly represented Mr Sheridan at the start of his 2006 defamation case against the News of the World newspaper. The then MSP sacked his legal team and ended up representing himself in the case.

Mr Keen also defended Lockerbie suspect Al Amin Khalifa Fhimah at the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing trial, with Fhimah acquitted of all charges.

Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said she is "delighted to welcome Richard on board".

She said: "As one of the UK's leading legal brains, he brings a wealth of external experience to the party and I am looking forward to working closely with him as we lead the team at a critical time in the politics of our country.

"Richard's appointment shows the Scottish Conservatives are committed to bringing in the brightest and best people from across Scotland as we make the changes our party needs for future success."

The Faculty of Advocates said Mr Keen would step down from the post of dean in January. He has held that position for six years - the longest period by any dean of the faculty in recent times - but will continue in practice as a QC.