THE Scottish Independence Foundation which many people are beginning to acknowledge as a hugely important part of funding the Yes movement has announced two new appointments to its board of directors in the shape of Ailsa Gray and Alan Davidson.

The board’s members are all unpaid volunteers from various walks of life in Scotland and the two new members exemplify the approach of bringing on people with experience that such a Foundation needs.

The Foundation stated: “The Board of the Scottish Independence Foundation (SIF) has recently been greatly strengthened by the addition of two formidable members: Ailsa Gray and Alan Davidson.

“Alan brings 40 years’ experience of financial management with professional, public and charitable bodies, and now wants to offer that experience to the independence movement.

“As a corporate lawyer, Ailsa has advised government and large businesses on how their business models can be used to deliver social impact. Both are committed to Scottish independence.”

Since its formation last year, SIF has raised and distributed £125,000 to 60 Yes-supporting local groups around the country, the most recent ones including Yes Cardenden, Edinburgh & Lothians, Kelty, Clackmannanshire, East Ayrshire, Calton, and Prestwick. SIF said: “You will hopefully have seen their gazebos, leaflets and activists, helping to persuade the undecideds. “At the national level, the funding has included contributing 40% of the costs of staging the November 2 Rally in Glasgow’s George Square which was organised by The National and featured First Minister Nicola Sturgeon."

SIF has also donated thousands of pounds towards providing Yes group starter packs for the newly-launched "Scotland the Brief" campaign, run by Business for Scotland and aiming to convert hundreds of thousands to the cause of independence Substantial funding was also given to help All Under One Banner secure the immensely successful Edinburgh March and Rally on October 5.

SIF added: “Many Yes groups from the south-west to the Highlands and all points in between have prospered due to the financial support and guidance given by SIF and its Board. “This recent funding has added to that already given to pro-Indy groups in Skye and Lochalsh, Banffshire, Caithness, and also a mobile hub in the Borders.

“If you wish to be part of our successful movement then email us at info@sif.scot. “You can find our address on our www.sif.scot website, or an application form to submit a funding request. Best of all, you can make a donation to our Foundation on the website.”

Money won’t buy independence but it will certainly help.