Arran ‘Freedom Sculptures’

Visitors and residents alike cannot have failed to notice the appearance of the Big Yes signs around the island, as the independence referendum gets closer. Visibility has become an important element for Yes advocates, as they deliver the biggest grass-roots campaign Scotland has ever seen, without the benefit of fair access to mainstream media, nationally or locally. For years, North Ayrshire Council has encouraged use of our lamp posts for election posters. It’s a neat, tidy and safe way of stimulating public participation in the democratic process. This year, however, the Conservative and Labour groups at Irvine joined forces to reverse that policy. Any measure to try to close down the Independence debate! Something much more inspiring has emerged, however. The Arran Big Yes signs – clearly very much appreciated nationally judging by their exposure on social media – have been created locally, from donated or sponsored materials, involving convivial work by at least half a dozen wood workers and numerous painters, and all sited on the private property of Independence supporters. Have a drive round the island during September and enjoy the ‘Big Yes Trail’! And ask that important question: why is it that the grotesquely wealthy elite who own the newspapers and manipulate the news want us to vote ‘No’?