THE founder of Scotland's largest Humanist group has resigned in protest at the organisation's support for same-sex marriage.

Nigel Bruce, 92, formerly of the Humanist Society of Scotland, said he had quit because he regarded such ceremonies as a "backward step" for human civilisation and a "crime against human children". However, Tim Maguire, spokesman for the society, said that he was "surprised", but added: "He is entitled to hold those views."

The row comes as a majority of MSPs prepare to back gay marriage tomorrow.

The number of Humanist weddings has grown in Scotland in recent years.