19 days to go

After a stormy crossing to Islay the sun came out in time for a quick interview , live on the BBC News Channel (who were broadcasting from the island about the referendum) . and then a visit to the Auction Mart at Bridgend to meet just a few of the many local farmers who are supporting "Farming for YES" and who were keen to get field posters and all sorts of other campaigning materials.

I had a range of further meetings and visits on the island in the afternoon and in the evening took part in a debate organised by "The Ileach", Islay's community newspaper. Over 200 people attended what many believed was the largest political meeting held on the island for many years, chaired by local boy and BBC correspondent Glen Campbell, fresh from presiding over the BBC's big debate last Monday night.

It was a good, lively discussion with lots of interesting questions. I was very lucky to have with me on the platform Jenni Minto who lives on the island and who , though making her debut in such a forum, was outstanding in her presentation of the positive case for change.