SEVERAL events planned by groups in the Yes movement will mark St Andrew’s Day this weekend.

The Scottish Independence Movement (SIM) is organising a march and rally in Edinburgh on Saturday.

A spokesperson said: “All who share the aspiration and determination to see Scotland an independent nation once again are invited to this gathering.”

Marchers will assemble on Johnston Terrace. Departing 1pm sharp, the march will proceed via Castle Terrace (Johnston Terrace to Lady Lawson Street), Lady Lawson Street, West Port, Grassmarket (main section), Cowgatehead, Cowgate, St. Mary’s Street, Canongate and Horse Wynd to the Scottish Parliament.

At the end of the march the crowd will be entertained with live music from some of Scotland’s top performers and hear speeches from leading figures in Scotland’s independence movement, including Tommy Sheppard MP.

As is now the custom at these Yes events, there will be a collection for local foodbanks. On this occasion, with Christmas fast approaching, there will also be a special collection in which people are invited to donate gifts for children who might otherwise be left without on Christmas morning. The Salvation Army has kindly agreed to assist with collection and distribution of donated parcels.

Mike Fenwick and Iain Leckenby will be livestreaming at this event for Independence Live.

Fenwick said: “Across the world there will be St Andrew’s societies also celebrating Scotland’s patron saint – this link will take you to some of them: www.scotland.org/events/st-andrews-day/st-andrews-societies

“Let’s start building connections across the world – find the sites for those societies, then share the livestream. Let’s show the more than 50 million people around the world who claim Scottish ancestry that we are on the march to regaining Scotland’s independence.”

Meanwhile, Yes2Indee launched its Christmas selection box appeal working with The Drover Bar at 447 Gallowgate, Glasgow. They will be donating to foodbanks from Drumchapel to Rutherglen, Falkirk, Perth, Aviemore, Edinburgh and Levenmouth.

Yes2Indee said: “Initially it was solely a Christmas selection box appeal but since we’ve contacted several foodbanks in the areas listed above food is preferred at some of these foodbanks. We’d like to reach out to the wider Yes movement to support this much needed cause the length and width of Scotland.”

“Join us at the Drover Bar from 5pm onwards for some games and entertainment the Amazing Pete Scally the rocking Scottish rebel and the Amazing Pepper Jock AKA Graham Dallas with some amazing Scottish songs.”