Colourful signs remind islanders to vote
23 June 2016
Regardless of Thursday’s European referendum outcome, the town of Stornoway is surely in the running to win the most colourful street campaigning title.
Empty lampposts in the rest of Scotland may be a sign of voter apathy or simply the result of a ban by local councils.
In the last Euro ballot 40 years ago, a significant majority of Western Isles residents voted to quit the EEC. Shetland was the only other UK community to vote against continuing membership.
Traditionally, a crowded array of rival political placards jostling for space on street furniture offered a visible and colourful signal that a ballot is afoot.
Apart from the Western Isles, only three other authorities in Scotland permit electioneering
material on street furniture -
The main streets in Stornoway are adorned with Leave and Remain placards.
Lamp posts decked high with the opposing red and white colours are a big tourist attraction for visiting cruise liner passengers.
The Out campaign must have more ladders as their signs crowd out the In side.