Ritchie was stripped of office last month after the Trade Union Certification Office ordered a re-run of the 2009 election because of ballot paper irregularities.

Both Ritchie and his beaten rival in the dodgy leadership race – Mick Dooley – are expected to stand in the new election later this year.

But the Enquirer understands a “unity” candidate will also stand with London and South East Regional Secretary Jerry Swain the strong favourite to take up the mantle.

One union source said: “Ritchie and Dooley have fought a long-running battle over the election and the feeling among a lot of us is that we need someone now to draw a line under that and unify the union.

“There are a few possible candidates but Jerry Swain would be the choice of a lot of us.”

Ritchie has returned to Scotland after being stripped of office where the Enquirer understands he is being paid the full general secretary’s salary of £80,000 while working as an administration assistant.

Ucatt has also decided to appeal against the order to re-run the election.

Dooley said:  “I am aware that an appeal has been registered. I do not believe that the appeal will be successful and it is a great pity that our union is in this position”.