ONE of the most responsible acts of the Yes movement has been the way in which member groups have responded well to the various restrictions imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The YES DIY pages have reported on how the numerous Yes hubs across the country have gone into lockdown as required by the Scottish Government, and while that has halted much campaigning, we have also charted the incredible growth in the Yes movement’s switch to technology such as Zoom.

Now we are delighted to report that due to the Scottish Government’s easing of restrictions, Yes Hubs will be re-opening from Monday.

Regular readers will recall that Edinburgh Yes Hub manager Mike Blackshaw has had to be hospitalised recently, but he is back in action and the hub at 31 Lasswade Road will re-open on Monday at 11am.

Blackshaw wrote to tell us: “At last the Edinburgh Yes Hub can re-open as we are on 26th April at 11am.

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“Lockdown has in some ways been helpful as I have spent 11 weeks in hospital as I keep getting infections in my legs and cannot walk or stand for any length of time.

“It has also allowed us to restock and we have a great range of badges, books, stickers, mugs, Scottish produce, jams, marmalades, pickles, chutneys, preserves, mustards, Mrs Berry’s and Galloway Lodge with Scottish Bee honey and Edinburgh Rock sweets, Orkney fudge and tablet. Loads more coming in.

“We have ordered loads of different t-shirts. We do need volunteers, however, as my legs are feeble and not to get some help will mean closure unless my legs improve.

“I look forward in seeing you all and a big thanks to all who assist financially to keep us open during lockdown.”

Cardenden Yes2 Hub in Fife is another hub that is re-opening, and they are also looking for local Yessers to volunteer to help out.

Their Facebook page states: “Great news. From the 26th of April we will be able to re-open following Scottish Government guidance on Covid-19.

“However, we need volunteers that could stay in the shop floor during the morning even if it’s not every day.”

Anyone who thinks they could help is asked to leave a message via the Facebook page.

The Yes DIY page would like to hear from Yes Hubs as they re-open, and also from local Yes groups as they prepare for the Scottish Parliament election on May 6. There is not long to go to the election so please let us know if your Yes hub or Yes group is planning any special activity before May 6.

We are particularly keen to hear from any group that is preparing campaign material for the second independence referendum.