Nicola Sturgeon is the politician most trusted to stand up for Scotland's interests, according to a poll.

The Panelbase survey of 1,018 people, commissioned by the SNP, found that 59% trusted the First Minister while 27% did not.

More than two-fifths (42%) said they trusted Deputy First Minister John Swinney compared to 28% who did not.

Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy MP polled third with the trust of 39% of those asked, compared with 37% who responded negatively.

Among the UK party leaders, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg fared the worst, with almost three-quarters (74%) saying they did not trust him to stand up for Scotland.

Only 18% of those polled would put their trust in Prime Minister David Cameron or UK Labour leader Ed Miliband.

Angus Robertson MP, SNP general election campaign co-ordinator, said: "Nicola Sturgeon has made clear her determination for Scotland's voice to be heard at Westminster following the general election next May.

"The SNP are campaigning for an end to austerity economics, the removal of nuclear weapons of mass destruction from Scotland's soil and the powers Scotland needs to build a strong economy and fair society.

"These messages have clearly resonated with the people of Scotland, as trust in the First Minister continues to grow."