5 days to go

Over they last eight months I have done quite a few Referendum public meetings with Professor Allan MacInnes, a friend and Argyll man and tonight was the last of those , held in Ardrishaig which is the place where the Crinan Canal starts (or finishes depending on your point of view).

Allan gives a fine historical analysis which is rooted in contemporary relevance and makes a compelling case for Independence. I have greatly enjoyed working with him in this way.

The writer and broadcaster Lesley Riddoch is also a friend and we have been trying for ages to find a date on which we could share a referendum platform , particularly as her book "Blossom" has been so hugely influential and inspirational. She is presently completing a PhD and her supervisor is Allan MacInnes so eventually , by lucky accident, a date was found which suited both of them.

It was a wonderful occasion with a packed hall , some great questions and huge enthusiasm. The standing ovation at the end was a surprise but then Lesley had to do some more work, and sign lots of copies of "Blossom".

Eventually we got back to Glendaruel (Lesley was staying with us) after 11.00 but buoyed up by the groundswell of support that is appearing everywhere.