INDEPENDENCE supporters will be out on the streets of Dumfries tomorrow for a march and rally. Here’s all you need to know about All Under One Banner’s March for Independence – Dissolve the Union.
Where does it begin?
The march starts at 12.30pm sharp from the High Street. Marchers are advised to arrive early to be organised into formation – especially those travelling from further afield, who should leave plenty of time for their journeys.
When are the stewards’ briefings?
The organisers are seeking additional volunteer stewards. If you wish to join the team then please attend the stewards’ briefings which will take place at 11.30am-12 noon on the High Street. However, if you miss this then simply approach a steward (those wearing hi-vis vests) when you arrive.
Which route will it follow?
The procession route is: High street, Burns Statue/Castle Street, Buccleuch street, Whitesands, Dockhead, Dock Park.
How many will be there?
Organisers estimate that at least several hundred people will attend the demonstration. They say AUOB marches are rebuilding the mass movement in the aftermath of the pandemic. Supporters are encouraged to bring instruments, drums and whistles for maximum audibility.
Has coach travel been organised?
One Yes group, Yes West Lothian, is known to be running a coach to the march. It leaves Bathgate Railway station at 9.30am, leaves Dumfries at 4.30pm and returns to Bathgate at 7.30pm. Tickets are £22. See facebook.com/events/s/yes-west-lothian-auob-dumfries/726371911753024/
Which roads will be closed?
There will not be any apart from on the route that the procession takes as it passes through the town. Police Scotland will facilitate the march with well-used stop and hold measures, which in co-operation with the steward team will ensure safe passage for all participants and minimum disruption to traffic and public transport.
Where is the rally?
The rally will take place in Dock Park. It will begin once the march arrives at approximately 1.15pm, and will finish around 3pm. There will be speakers from the SNP, English Scots for Yes, Pensioners for Independence, Alba, Now Scotland, Germans for Scottish Independence and Independence Live. There will also be some entertainment from Pete Scally (pictured). The organisers have issued an open invitation to Yes groups to set up stalls in Dock Park. If you wish to do so, please arrive in plenty of time.
Will there be a foodbank collection?
Yes, please bring your items, which will be uplifted at 3pm by Firstbase Foodbank at Dock Park.
When is the next march after tomorrow?
The next march is at Stirling (Bannockburn) on Saturday, June 25.
