Former first minister of Scotland Alex Salmond has been cleared of attempted rape and a series of sexual assaults – including one with intent to rape.

The 65-year-old walked free after being cleared by a jury following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Salmond had denied 13 alleged sexual offences against nine women, who were all either working for the Scottish government or within the SNP at the time.

The jury returned a not proven verdict on one charge of assault with intent to rape, finding him not guilty of all other charges, including an attempted rape.

In the Scottish legal system, a not proven verdict is in practice the same as a not guilty verdict. 

Speaking outside court Salmond said: “There is certain evidence that I would have liked to have seen led in this trial but for a variety of reasons we were not able to do so.

“Those facts will see the light but it won’t be this day.”

He said: “I’d like to thank my friends and family for standing by me over the last two years.”

A number of the charges Salmond faced had allegedly taken place at Bute House in Edinburgh, the official residence of Scotland’s first minister. 

He was first arrested and charged by Police Scotland in relation to the allegations in January 2019. 

• Rape Crisis services for women and girls who have been raped or have experienced sexual violence – 0808 802 9999
• Survivors UK offers support for men and boys – 0203 598 3898