WHEN many tens of thousands of people take part in a march and rally for independence, it’s a sign of the times for Scotland and such mass demonstrations certainly have their place.

These Yes DIY pages, however, are about the wider Yes movement’s hard work.

We know people are impatient to get on with indyref2 and the campaigning that will be needed, but it’s in meetings around the country that the preparations are being done. We’d like to hear more from you about such activities – just e-mail community@thenational.scot and we’ll do a round up soon.

Here’s an example from Musselburgh and District SNP: “The branch enjoyed a healthy turnout for its AGM in the Brunton Hall. Following a report from each of the branch office-bearers, Colin Beattie MSP chaired the election of posts for the coming year.

“Nick Heller was re-elected as convener for the third year, vice-convener was Linda Watson, Cllr John Williamson was re-elected as secretary, and Graham Ingram as treasurer. Jim Kidd was re-elected as political education officer and Alex Craigie as membership secretary. Katrina Hunter was appointed to the women and equalities post and Roger Knox as press officer.

“Colin Beattie addressed the meeting with an update from the Scottish Parliament and voiced some concern over the local health centre which, he said, although satisfying the needs of a large number of residents still left ‘a substantial minority’ feeling their needs were not being met.”