THE YES DIY Hub column today is what they used to call a portmanteau affair, namely we are cramming several items into one because there is so much going on in the movement due to this summer of the surge. Of course, you will not see this reported in any other newspaper, so more fool their readers when they wake up in an independent Scotland.

Today, Dundee will host Jock Tamson’s EuropeFest – a day of solidarity and celebration with our European Scots friends. A joint venture between Dundee & Angus Independence Group and European Citizens for an Independent Scotland, the festival will combine a political rally with speakers such as Eva Bolander Glasgow SNP Lord Provost, The Green Party’s Maggie Chapman and Dundee MPs Chris Law and Stewart Hosie. Local European community leaders and activists will also speak and a Polish dance group Polonez will provide entertainment.

Aware that it now clashes with the demonstrations against Donald Trump, Dundee & Angus Independence’s group’s Siobhan Tolland states: “Te best antidote to Trump divisiveness is to celebrate our unity through our diversity and promote Scotland as the welcoming country we are. European Scots contribute to our society, our culture and our sense of identity and they deserve a hand of friendship and support from our Yes movement in these uncertain Brexit times.”

Newly-formed group, Dumfries and Galloway Pensioners for Independence, continue to take their independence message across Southern Scotland – driven by sweeties, cakes and music. Newton Stewart was the latest town to give them and Yes Machars a warm reception with many new members signed up. Next on the agenda is Annan on Saturday 28th July so come along and raid the sweetie jar.

Dumfries and Galloway Pensioners for Independence said: “We have formed to inform discussion about issues during the independence debate, particularly those which are of interest to people at or approaching retirement age. We are not aligned to any political party. We believe that power in the hands of the Scottish people is in the best interests of all its people.”

Edinburgh Women for Independence (EWFI) wrote to tell us they are on the move “or as we say here, we’re flitting!” After four happy years at Serenity Café, EWFI are moving to Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel (corner of Annandale St and Haddington Place). They said: “Our very first meeting is Saturday July 21, so here’s a warm welcome to women, far and near. Come join us, and join in as we continue to help shape the indy landscape. We’re continuing with our regular day, date and time, third Saturday, every month, 2-4 pm in a fully accessible building with a great café.”