DISGRACED former MSP Bill Walker, who was jailed for 12 months for domestic abuse offences against three former wives and a stepdaughter, has lost an appeal for bail.

Judge Lord Armstrong refused the 71-year-old's attempt to be freed from prison pending an appeal during a private hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh.

Walker was found guilty in August of 23 assaults and one breach of the peace between 1967 and 1995.

His solicitor Russel McPhate said he maintains his innocence and that an appeal will be launched.

Sheriff Kathrine Mackie, who heard the two-week trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, said Walker was in "absolute denial" as she imposed the maximum sentence available to the court last month.