Shamed peer has burning desire to volunteer

SHAMED peer Lord Watson today revealed he wanted to work in the voluntary sector.

The former Labour MSP and MP was released from prison on Tuesday after serving half of a 16-month sentence for setting fire to curtains at Edinburgh's Prestonfield House Hotel. It was reported that Lord Watson believes his political experience could prove an asset in helping organisations such as Shelter or Oxfam.

"As an MP and as an MSP I worked with a wide range of voluntary organisations," he said.

"But I hope people will judge me on what I have done in the totality of my life and not just one incident."

While Watson has ruled out a comeback in elected politics, he is expected to make a return to the House of Lords.