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After securing the necessary 100-plus nominations, Ms Davidson said a four-horse race would give party members a genuine choice in a battle that will decide the future direction of the Tories in Scotland.

‘I am delighted to be taking part in an election campaign that offers a real diversity and a broad range of ideas,’ she said. ‘I look forward to putting forward my case, my vision for the party and to vigorous debate with my three fellow contenders.’

Ms Davidson, 32, the youngest of the four candidates, has already won the support from Lords Forsyth and Sanderson as well as the backing of several other prominent Conservative politicians, including John Scott, deputy Holyrood presiding officer, John Lamont MSP and former deputy presiding office Murray Tosh.

Ruth said there was mounting support within the party for her and her mission to renew and refresh the Scottish Conservatives.

Continuing her nationwide tour of the constituencies today, she added: ‘I see it in every stop I make and every member I meet and I am greatly encouraged in my quest to lead a Scottish Conservative & Unionist Party which once again has the ability to win.

‘The Scottish Conservatives should be seen as the natural party of aspiration; the party that backs the hard- working and enterprising, and the socially conscious. I see the Scottish Conservatives as the party for Scots of all backgrounds who want safer streets, better schools, and a vibrant economy.”

“And I want the Scottish Conservatives to be the party to which voters turn to speak up for the union and Scotland’s place in the United Kingdom. It is by taking these principles forward and engaging with the people of Scotland that will lead to the Conservatives winning again. Breaking up the party or just giving it a new name will not achieve any of this. Everywhere I go, I hear members telling me they want the opportunity to elect Conservative politicians, a Conservative government and a Conservative Prime Minister. I am not going to deny them that opportunity.”

Ruth added: ‘This election will decide the future of our party. I am confident of my case and of my ability to lead the Scottish Conservatives and to make it a force once again.”