ONE of the reasons The National started the Yes DIY pages was to reflect the growth in the number of Yes groups across the country.

We have reported on the launch and re-launch of Yes groups across Scotland and helped to promote them. It is really inspiring to us here at The National to know that we are helping.

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Indeed we have been told on several occasions that the pages on Wednesday and Saturday are helping to create a sense of identity in such a disparate and widespread movement, so here’s a missive to gladden our hearts from Alan Calder, newly appointed secretary of Yes Strathaven.

“On Sunday May 20 the latest Indy group, Yes Strathaven, was established at a packed meeting in a function room within the town. Representatives from Common Weal, Women for Independence, Yes East Ayrshire and Yes East Kilbride joined members of the public, both affiliated and non-affiliated to political parties, for the successful launch.

“The National kindly ran a Notice Board notification during the week leading up to the inaugural event and not only that, but we were delighted (and surprised) to open Saturday’s paper to see a specific mention of our event, reminding us of our proud radical Strathaven heritage dating from the 1820 national uprising.

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“We look forward to the coming campaign and thank Scotland’s foremost newspaper, The National, for your support.”

Glad to be of service, Alan, and happy to hear more.