WITH a little over four weeks to go until what will be the biggest event for independence this year – barring the calling of indyref2 – organisers are hopeful for a record attendance at the march in Glasgow next month.
Organised by the All Under One Banner (AUOB) group, the march will take place on Saturday, May 5. The most recent Glasgow event in June last year saw in excess of 20,000 participants, up from 8000 on the previous occasion in 2016. That, in turn, was more than double 2015’s parade which saw 3000 attend.
AUOB spokesman Neil Mackay said: “Therefore we anticipate to at least double 2017’s Scottish record and see in excess of 40,000 independence supporters take to the streets for Scotland’s freedom.”
AUOB say their events are always family friendly, ethical and safe for all to attend.
Mackay added: “There has never been any violent incidents on any of our previous seven big processions despite the best attempts of a regular handful of Unionists who turn up and pitch out on the pavement somewhere in town. We not only have a veteran stewarding team to hand but Police Scotland have confirmed that this year on May 5 the said noisy few will be barricaded in with police barriers and watched over by officers to ensure their negativity is contained.
“Our independence supporters are always on best behaviour as we are all fully aware how the British press likes to twist anything into a story against independence, and we are decent people who desire a decent Scotland, far removed from the negativity expressed from the opposing side. Our marches are always safe for young and old to attend and our stewards have extensive experience at assisting everyone from young families with buggies to the elderly and disabled to ensure maximum attendance and the maximum enjoyment of the Yes family’s AUOB events.”
In accordance with the law and Glasgow City Council’s rulings, the procession will be stewarded. So as to ensure that all new volunteers get sufficient training AUOB are hosting a pre-march briefing meeting on April 29 in Hillhead Library from 1pm to 4pm.
Mackay added: “We have all the equipment we require and most importantly have our superb head steward team. We are seeking additional volunteer stewards so if anyone is interested please text/call head steward and march organiser Manny Singh on 07939 211814.
The costs are paid by a crowdfunder page which currently has raised £3150 of the £3309 target with nine days to go.
Rallies are also set for June 2 in Dumfries, June 23 at Bannockburn and July 28 in Inverness.
As Yes DIY reports, independence is on the march.
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