Do the Ayes Have It?

Le Martin Pecheur (Kingfisher), Nargis, France

I am no great believer in coincidences but what are the odds of this? Late yesterday afternoon, we were looking for a place to moor for the night. There seemed to be nowhere. No villages, no picnic areas, nothing to tie to except trees (not really allowed). Just at that beginning to be fed up point we rounded a bend and saw a bar/restaurant ahead which, unlike many canalside businesses, was still open. Even more surprisingly, hanging from a flagpole was a Saltire (Scottish flag). Seeing our Saltire on the boat a man on the terrace called out in the question that everyone in Scotland is answering today 'How are you voting?' Like this Scottish owner of the bar we don't have a vote but we do have an opinion or two so we tied up to the convenient rail and joined him to discuss them. What a great evening in a Scottish bar, filled with Scottish memorabilia, drinking McEwans Export and discussing the Referendum! Great to feel part of the excitement even from afar. Whatever the decision today - Bon Courage Scotland!!!
And a plug for Le Martin Pecheur, the bar in question. Excellent pub whose rock guitarist 'patron' seems to be on good terms with many noted musicians and organises concerts at weekends. You never know who you might meet. Good food as well. 

The Saltire