AN “incredible” level of interest has been sparked by next year’s Progress To Yes Conference, according to organisers.

The demand for tickets from enthusiastic National readers has been so great that early bird tickets sold out within hours of going on sale. As of Friday, 80% of available tickets had been purchased for the event, organised by the Aberdeen Independence Movement (AIM) with several partner organisations such as Woman for Independence and Believe in Scotland.

The line-up for the one day conference, to be held at the Aberdeen Park Inn on February 27, includes Michael Russell, Hannah Bardell MP, Aamer Anwar, Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp, Maggie Chapman MSP and Karen Adam MSP, with more yet to be announced.

Aim Co-organiser Alan Petrie said: “We never in our wildest dreams thought tickets would sell this quick. But it just shows that there is a genuine desire in the Yes movement to get back to work and to come to an event that will concentrate on the how and why of independence rather than the tired old debate about process.

"The event will be a joyous day of discussion, learning new skills and be the perfect launchpad for the campaign that lies ahead.

“We thank everyone who has bought tickets, shown interest and shared information about the event on socials. Without retweets and discussions around the event, we would not be where we are today.

“We have also had several groups come forward seeking to be involved and are looking at ways to include as many progressive groups as possible. Still, with 100s of Yes organisations, it is impossible to include everyone in a one-day conference.”

Tickets are still available but as demand continues to be very high it is recommended to buy as early as possible.

www.buytickets.at/aberdeenindependencemovement/605424/r/n14