Alex Salmond, the former Scottish first minister, has announced he will stand as an MP at next May's general election in the UK.

The ex-SNP leader will join the contest for the seat in the parliamentary constituency of Gordon.

The seat is currently held by Sir Malcolm Bruce, the long-serving Liberal Democrat MP who is retiring in May 2015.

Mr Salmond resigned as SNP leader and First Minister last month, having signalled his intention to do so just hours after the Yes campaign lost the independence referendum, and speculation over his political future has continued ever since.

Mr Salmond, who was previously an MP for Banff and Buchan between 1987 and 2010, set out his plans in a speech in Ellon, Aberdeenshire.

Mr Salmond told those gathered that he does not expect there to be an overall majority at the next election and that as a result, Scotland could emerge in a "commanding position".

"In the weeks since the referendum the people of Scotland have refused to give up on the hope of a better Scotland," he said.

"For those who voted Yes the referendum offered the possibility of real change. For many who voted No they insist on the vow being properly redeemed.

"Therefore it is incumbent on all of us to step up to the plate – to match the spirit being shown by the people. Therefore I can tell the constituency today that I am a candidate for the SNP nomination for Gordon."

Mr Salmond said he had no intention to lead the SNP at Westminster and would continue to support Angus Robertson.

He added that if he is elected as an MP and MSP he will donate one salary to a charity supporting local causes.