FOLLOWERS of the referendum story in 2014 will need no reminding that on the night the votes were counted, Clackmannanshire was the first local authority area to declare its result, and came out against independence.
A total of 19,036 voted to reject independence, with 16,350 voting Yes on a turnout of 89%. There were 35,411 votes cast, with 25 rejected ballots. The exceptionally high turnout and the percentage voting of 53.8% for No against 46.2% Yes set the pattern for what was ultimately a sad outcome for the independence movement.
There will be a second independence referendum and, with its small and centralised population, there is every chance that the “Wee County”, or Clacks as it is also known, will be the first to declare its result again. So we at the Yes DIY hub are taking a particular interest in the activities of local pro-indy group Yes Clackmannanshire and we have to say we are impressed with their efforts to put the Wee County in the picture about independence.
The latest event is set for Saturday, September 14, when the Wee County will have its biggest day out for independence yet.
Chick Hosie of Yes Clackmannanshire wrote to tell us about Yes in the Community – “a day where Yes Clackmannanshire will be engaging with our local community to highlight the benefits of Scottish self-determination and listen to local people’s views and concerns around their communities and their aspirations for the future".
He said: “This will take place in Alloa town centre and the Bowmar Community Centre. Keynote speakers include Keith Brown, our local MSP and depute leader of the SNP; Lorna Slater, recently elected co-leader of the Scottish Green Party; and Rosie McGarvey Kane, former Scottish Socialist Party MSP and long-time campaigner for Scottish independence. There will also be a number of artists and bands performing along with local inputs and a community cafe.
“The day begins with a family procession leaving from Alloa railway station at 11am, marching through the town centre past Alloa Tower and arriving at the Bowmar centre in Scott Crescent for the start of the days activities at 12.30pm.”
His next remarks touched our hearts: “We will of course, if possible, be distributing free copies of The National out to those in attendance and the wider general public.
“The project has been funded through the Scottish Independence Foundation, local donations and Yes Clacks fundraising efforts. All activities are free and the cafe will operate on a cost-only basis.”
A blueprint for Yes groups everywhere? We’ll let you know how it goes.
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