A COMMITTED Yes campaigner who’s been making independence-themed artwork for more than 30 years is the focus of our latest YESterday feature.
The National has been asking readers to submit photographs and memorabilia from pro-independence campaigning which took place long before the 2014 referendum.
We found many younger readers understand the independence conversation through the lens of the indyref onwards, but it is important to celebrate the people who put the work in for decades prior to the vote.
READ MORE: How one family fought for Home Rule for Scotland during the 1970s
For this week’s article, retired architect David Roche has shared images of his Scotland-themed car decals.
Yes supporter – and regular contributor to The National’s letters pages – David has been designing and producing Saltire-styled t-shirts and car decals (stickers) for more than 30 years.
The artwork was initially created while he lived in the Middle East.
"In the past a black and white 'GB' with a discreet wee 'Ecosse' at the top struck me as a bit apologetic, even mealymouthed. But, to be fair, it was pretty well all that was available at the time,” David told The National.
The decals have now evolved to reflect Scotland’s “continuing 'European-ness in three languages – the 'French Connection' remaining historically important – and our star a signal that we will be back,” he said.
READ MORE: Margo MacDonald's best moments fighting for Scottish independence in the 1970s
The artwork has proved popular at SNP conferences and Yes rallies over the years but now the retired architect – and twice SNP candidate in north-east Fife in 1980s – believes it is time for a reboot.
He is hoping to launch newly designed decals and t-shirts, including artwork which reads "Scotland – I Love It" and, depending on demand, another reading "Let Scotland Fly Free".
READ MORE: Tories 'trying to dig grave of Union' by putting UK flag on car number plates
David is keen to invite Yes groups which have merchandise to contact him with a view to adding the new decal to their stock. He is also planning direct sales from his home in Perthshire.
David added: "Now is the time to make a statement on your car, which, after all, is seen by hundreds of people every week – especially as Boris Johnson seems determined to force us to have a Union flag on our numberplates! Bring it on!”
David Roche can be contacted at drawscot41@gmail.com
Anyone who’d like to submit their memories – whether they are pictures of people at marches, old flags, badges, T-shirts, flyers, whatever you have – please click here.
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