First Minister has blasted social media ‘cowards’ for dishing out ‘toxic abuse’ to Holyrood hopefuls.Nicola Sturgeon sent a series of messages on Twitter hailing those who have put themselves forward for the upcoming Scottish Parliament elections in May 2021.The SNP leader spoke out after Rhiannon Spear, who is seeking to represent Argyll and Bute, fell victim to horrific misogynistic abuse having previously defended transgender rights.Sturgeon has also called on her fellow serving parliamentarians to defend the newcomers regardless of party politics.She tweeted: “A shout out to everyone - in all parties - standing for s/election to @ScotParl for the first time."You will face abuse on here - especially if you have the temerity to be a woman.