THE National Roadshow continues its northern tour next week, this time heading for the northern lights of Aberdeen.

Editor Callum Baird will be joined by popular columnist Paul Kavanagh, aka Wee Ginger Dug, for a visit to the north-east.

Baird and the Roadshow will be at St Nicholas Square from 11am until 3pm next Wednesday, July 26.

The meet and greet will provide locals with the opportunity to discuss Scottish independence, issues particular to the north-east and ask any questions they might have.

In the evening, we move on to the Blue Lamp in the city’s Gallowgate, with an event kicking off at 7pm. Baird will introduce Kavanagh for one of his renowned talks before a question and answer session with audience members, who are free to voice any concerns that matter to them.

Attendees will also be able to become acquainted with the undoubted star of the show – the Wee Ginger Dug himself.

Further entertainment will be provided in the form of raffles. The evening is free of charge, though donations are welcome.

Kavanagh said: “The National is a national newspaper and I think it’s important that we show it’s responsive to the views of those outwith the central belt.

“Reasons and motives for independence are going to be different all over the country, and we have to be responsive to that.

“It demonstrates a commitment to the regional diversity of Scotland – it’s not simply a Glasgow or Edinburgh project.

“The north-east is an area where the independence movement has encountered problems recently so we really need to up our game there.

“That’s why we’ll be out there meeting people, showing that the movement listens to their concerns – it’s all very well talking to people but you have to listen too.”

Baird said he “can’t wait” for the event. “Aberdeen is crucial to Scottish independence so it’s really important that the views of the people there are heard,”

he said.

“It will be good to get the perspective from Aberdeen and hear more about issues that affect local people.”