A group of activists from the local Yes Orkney group which campaigns for an independent Scotland attended a march and rally in Edinburgh on Saturday the 6th of October.

The organisers ‘All Under One Banner’ state that the march which took over 2 hours to go down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Park was supported by over 100,000 people.

Holyrood Park is managed by Historic Environment Scotland who did not grant permission for stalls to be set up but the event went ahead anyway.

A spokesperson for Yes Orkney said:

“Following on from our participation in the Inverness March, seven of us travelled separately to take part in the All Under One Banner March in Scotland’s capital on Saturday.

“As we had travelled separately we pre arranged to meet outside the Usher Hall at noon where a sizeable crowd had already gathered and the atmosphere was building. We moved off to join the larger gathering at Johnston Terrace.

“On route we were brought up short by the sound of bells which were leading our friends, the 500 mile walkers who were reaching the end of their marathon expedition, many hugs and congratulations ensued. It was great to see Pilar Fernandez from Rosalia TV (the bridge between Galiza and Scotland) there covering the end of their walk.

“We continued on up the hill where we awaited the start of the March. The atmosphere was electric and although it took an hour for the tailback to reach us and our March to start social media kept us in touch with what was happening up front.

“The March itself was exciting with many bystanders joining in with the chants for independence in our case being led by a wee girl, ” What do we want…..Independence, When do we want it, Now!”

“Once we reached the Park we met up with another couple who had journeyed from Orkney. As the March was so big, by the time we reached the Park we had missed the main speakers but thanks to many folks posting online we could watch later.

“We had a fantastic day, roll on the next one, the tide is turning. Saor Alba.”

The march in Edinburgh was the largest one yet to take place in support of Independence. A collection was taken of products and money for Foodbanks in Edinburgh.

A spokesperson for South Leith Parish Church Foodbank thanked the organisers for donating 240Kg (37st) of food and £765.

Inspector Murray Starkey said:

“Police Scotland worked alongside event organisers and partners for a planned march in the capital.

“Disruption to the city centre was as expected and all roads reopened as planned. Queen’s Drive was temporarily closed to ensure public safety.

“One arrest was made in connection with a minor offence.

“Both the participants and the wider public are thanked for their patience and cooperation during today’s event.”

The weekend saw other marches taking place across Scotland. These were celebrating the Pride movement. They took place at Stornoway and Inverness –  Hebridean Pride and Proud Ness.

Reporter: Fiona Grahame