She would have been forgiven for returning to Holyrood in a spirit of gloom and despair after last week's indyref downturn.

But Angela Constance, Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Women's Employment and MSP for Almond Valley, showed a decidedly chirpier side when she appeared in the chamber on Tuesday.

She boasted these shoes, as a fashion statement or maybe for a bet...we're still trying to find out why.

Ms Constance tweeted on Tuesday night: "Thank you for your interest in my shoes! I'm a busy working mum who just occasionally likes to have a wee bit of fun."

They certainly didn't go unnoticed: Deputy First Minister and SNP heir apparent leader Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: Guess which member of @scotgov Cabinet is wearing these shoes?

"Awesome" and "utterly bonkers" were some of the comments posted online about the heels.

For fashionistas, the quirky court shoes are designed by Irregular Choice and cost £125. They are available from high street retailer Schuh and come in black as well as powder blue.

They feature a deer sculptured heel, cute cartoon design and an ankle strap fastening. They are finished with red plastic cherries on top.