ONE of the saddest aspects of the delay in obtaining a second independence referendum is that people who have committed years to the Yes cause are passing away without seeing Scotland free.

One such person was Margaret Pollock, a stalwart and weel-kent figure with the Yes movement who died suddenly but peacefully at the age of 72 and whose funeral will be held on Monday.

Margaret was a leading member of Yes Kirriemuir and treasurer of her local SNP branch. In recognition of her commitment to the cause of independence, Yes Kirriemuir are organising a unique tribute to her on Monday.

Yes Kirriemuir said: “Margaret Pollock’s funeral is taking place this Monday, the 24th of August. Owing to Covid restrictions at the crematorium, those wishing to pay their respects are invited to do so in a kerbside tribute. The family are proud of how passionate Margaret was about Scotland’s future. You are welcome to bring a flag to salute Margaret as she makes her final journey.

“The hearse will be leaving the top of the Glengate at 11:45 and making its way along the Glengate, Reform Street, Bank Street and down Bellies Brae, through Padanaram and into Forfar.

“The cortège will go past the Sheriff Court and along North Street before turning left at the East Port lights and heading on to the Crematorium in Friockheim.

“Socially-distanced pavement tributes are welcomed along the route. Those friends who are unable to pay their respects in person are welcome to think of other ways of showing they are thinking of our dear friend.”

Margaret is survived by her son Colin and brother Charles said: “She will be greatly missed by all. I really cannot put it into words but we will miss her laughter and her fun.

“Her commitment to the cause of independence was total. She wanted Scotland to be free and devoted a lot of her time and energy to the cause. Sadly she didn’t live long enough to see Scotland becoming independent.”

Her friend Ruth Watson, founder of Keep Scotland the Brand said: “Margaret often said independence is coming but worried that she might not live to see it, but I would tell her that the path to independence will be paved by the work she has done.

“She was a very, very active and energetic figure both within Yes Kirriemuir and the SNP. She was often seen at the party conference, and dedicated quite a large part of her life to working for independence,

“She was always the person I sat beside when we were going to marches and rallies which she

loved to attend. She was also a former headteacher who touched many people’s lives in in her professional career.”