TURNOUT for the independence march in Dumfries on Saturday hugely exceeded expectations with 10,000 people taking to the streets in glorious weather.

Despite voting No in the 2014 referendum, the town was filled with people of all ages and political allegiances who came together to show their support for Scottish independence.

A small group of Unionist protesters were ignored, while representatives of Tories for Yes, English Scots for Yes and Pensioners for Independence joined the throng snaking through the streets.

The National:

Police Scotland estimated 10,000 people attended the All Under One Banner (AUOB) march which went without a hitch. Chief Inspector Stuart Davidson told The National it was one of the largest processions ever seen in Dumfries.

“The numbers were probably double what organisers had anticipated but the policing and stewarding plan allowed us to manage it without any risk to the participants and community going about their business,” he said.

The National:

“It was a peaceful procession with no issues at all. There were a couple of counter protests but they were well managed – they were respectful on both sides and there were no arrests and no disorder. The organisers were very good leading up to it and on the day.”

The march followed one in Glasgow last month which was attended by 90,000 independence supporters, according to some estimates, and was one of the biggest displays of public opinion since protests against the Iraq War.

The National:

Manny Singh of AUOB said the Dumfries march was one of the best the organisation had ever held. “We had people from all walks of life and all political parties marching for Scotland,” he said. “It was a great day and we got very good feedback from the police and council. In fact, I would like to thank the police, the council, the fire and ambulance services and Dumfries AUOB for all their help.”

Lindsay McCrea of Yes Pentland, who travelled to Dumfries to take part, said it was noticeable that many young people had turned out.

“It was a good day, the stewarding was superb and everyone was happy,” he said. “There were a bunch of Unionists standing there but no one bothered about them – they were the usual suspects you find at all these marches. No-one took any notice of them.

“The atmosphere was great. It was Glasgow all over again but on a smaller scale.”

The National:

Proving that the desire for independence is not confined to young people was Isabelle Gow from Pensioners for Independence.

Now living in Edinburgh, McCrea travelled back to her home town for the day.

She said: “It was wonderful to see the Dumfries streets full of hope and joy. It’s usually such a depressing place though some young folk supported by the SNP are trying to revitalise the high street. Unfortunately it has been a Tory and Labour held region which has dragged its feet.

She added: “There is an appetite, and more now, for independence. I get so annoyed with Tories saying there isn’t. They are ignoring at least 50% of their constituents. We have not gone away and we are stronger than ever. I’m feeling very confident that we will cast off the shackles of Westminster which have been tying us down for decades.”

More marches will be held over the next few months.