I’VE lived in Scotland for 32 years, my children were born here and I love Scotland. Over the years I’ve mostly voted SNP, as I thought they always did what was best for the local area I lived in and I liked their overall values and policies.

In 2014 I didn’t initially know which way to vote in the independence referendum so I went to talks, read books and had conversations with many on both sides. Eventually I voted Yes as my son and daughter persuaded me to! I didn’t wake up the next day in tears – like many did.

Then Conservative Cameron played fast and loose and called an EU referendum. I believe many Leave voters voted on half truths and lies, and were manipulated by some of the press and possibly some of our TV presenters.

I think the Scottish people are now realising the truth, regardless of how they voted. Brexit is very bad for Scotland.

So what a shambles with Brexit we’re all in, UK-wide. What a mess May and her motley team are making of it! Utterly incompetent and that’s clear as day!

Therefore I believe independence for Scotland is the only way to save our economy, promote our culture and have the respect Scotland and its people deserve.

With independence the EU and the wider world will know we have gained our pride back and gravitate to trade, live and visit here.

Scotland is such a beautiful land, from the Outer Hebrides to the Borders and all that’s in between – Edinburgh, Glasgow, St Andrews, the Kingdom Of Fife, the beaches, the castles, the architecture, the wildlife (and nightlife!), of course I could go on. Then there is our First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. The envy of many of my friends in England. Such a capable, clever, caring and charismatic woman.

Scotland, this amazing land, has so much to be proud of. I think we all need to show our pride (not arrogance) more and our self-respect will be greater when we are independent. Making decisions based on what our country needs, with love in our hearts as we make them.

Donna Curless
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