BY virtue of their attendances and frequency, the All Under One Banner marches for independence have tended to dominate the headlines over the past couple of years.
Yet one group in Fife is now planning its third annual march and rally in the Kingdom, and told the Yes DIY hub that they are “ready to rock” for the latest march which is set for Dunfermline, Scotland’s ancient capital, at the end of next month.
Forward as One is the group behind the event on August 31 and the latest schedule is that the marchers will assemble from 10.30am to 12pm at Viewfield Terrace, just off Eastport and High Street, in Dunfermline.
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The march will move off to Pittencrieff Park at 12pm and the rally will commence there at 1pm.
Forward as One told us: “We are pleased to announce that the third annual march and rally by Forward as One in Dunfermline on the 31st of August is a go.
“After discussions with Police Scotland (as is normal) the route and plans have been approved by them without any amendments requested.
“Medical provision is now in place, as is insurance and the stage with full marshal backline booked, though we are still around £150 away from our funding target of £2900.
Speaking about the day the convener of Forward as One, Martin Keatings, said: “I’d like to start by taking the opportunity to thank Police Scotland for their continuing professionalism and courtesy in the planning stages and for adopting our plans for the day without amendment.
“After three years of doing this, we have a great relationship with them. Conversations are always free and frank exchanges with both parties aiming for only one thing, the safety and security of those in attendance and people in the local area.
“I’d also like to thank our usual first aid providers who ensure the safety and welfare of everyone in attendance with tier one trauma provision and advanced first aiders.
“Final provisions over safety planning, risk assessments and insurance are now being finalised for the event and local residents and businesses will be notified of the minimal disruption to the town centre.
“We’d like to thank all local residents for their continuing understanding with regards to the right to freely assemble and engage in political discourse.
“While we’re still around £150 away from our £2900 funding target on gofundme but we are confident that we can get that over the line in the next week.”
“Apart from that, we’re ready to rock and we hope that everyone will have an amazing day.”
If the past events are anything to go by the marchers in Dunfermline will have an enjoyable and safe experience.
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