The Ship Song
Ten years ago this month I was in a pub called The Porter in Bath with my girlfriend and her family, buying everyone whiskies and gabbling deliriously (I’d been up for over 40 hours at that point) about the significance of what had just happened.
Alex Salmond’s SNP had just broken the Scottish electoral system, winning an absolute majority of seats in a Parliament designed expressly to stop that from ever happening. A total of 72 pro-independence MSPs had been elected, and it was already clear that an independence referendum was going to happen despite the Labour Party’s best efforts. It was impossibly exciting.
This month I sat and watched 72 ostensibly pro-indy MSPs be elected again, but this time with my heart breaking, knowing that they would achieve nothing and indeed had no real intention to even try.
And I’ve had enough of feeling that way.
I’m not going to rehash all the blindingly obvious reasons why there isn’t going to be independence referendum in the life of this Parliament, because we’ve explained them a dozen times and anyone who was ever going to listen already knows. Boris Johnson – or any other Tory leader – has absolutely no reason to allow one and nothing to fear from refusing.
Scotland has no influence over him whatsoever. The mad fantasy of him bowing to pressure from an international community that stood back and watched Spain beat up and imprison peaceful democratic campaigners doesn’t deserve the dignity of a moment’s consideration from anyone even halfway sane. We told you in May 2016 that the election result took an indyref off the table for five years and we were proved right. We’re telling you again.
The only time in history the independence movement has ever held any meaningful leverage over a UK government (Theresa May’s lame-duck minority administration of 2017-19) Nicola Sturgeon squandered it on a futile and immoral attempt to deny England and Wales the Brexit that they voted for of their own free democratic will, and then helpfully handed Johnson the election that gave him the 80-seat majority which now renders him totally invulnerable on the constitution.
So what’s coming now is five miserable years of deja vu. A Holyrood with a pro-indy majority but no will to do anything with it, just like the one we’ve had since 2016 when Sturgeon lost Salmond’s majority and became beholden to the foul, racist, misogynist paedophilia sympathisers and enablers of the Scottish Greens – a situation that it’s now possible with hindsight to see absolutely delights her.
I want no part of the lie they’re going to foist on indy supporters for the next few years. I want no responsibility for how people are going to feel as it slowly, gradually dawns on them that they’ve been conned and taken for fools in exactly the same way Tony Blair did to Labour voters 20 years ago.
Blair won three elections, but burned Labour and all its values to the ground in the process, leaving the party an unelectable, bitterly factional mess that still trails even the current monstrous, farcical atrocity of a Tory government in the opinion polls, 13 years after Blair left office to concentrate on building his colossal personal wealth.
That day is coming down the line for the New SNP, make no mistake about it. Given the ludicrously inept state of the opposition parties in Scotland it looks a while off yet. But the Tories under William Hague and Michael Howard and Iain Duncan Smith were a joke of a party that looked like it was dead and buried forever, but politics abhors a vacuum and eventually someone came along capable of reviving it.
The price that’ll be paid for Nicola Sturgeon’s betrayal of the SNP for the sake of her personal career will be years and years in the wilderness for the independence movement. The 80 years of work by her predecessors leading to the high water mark of 2011-14 have been turned to ashes and it takes a while for anything to grow back from ashes.
I’m already 53 and the men in my family rarely get much past 70. I don’t intend to waste the rest of my life waiting for that to happen, and unlike some I’m not prepared to lie to people in the meantime for the sake of a paycheque or a cosy wee country cottage or a pathetic delusion of relevance like some broken-record bloggers or media pundits who should have been pensioned off a decade ago.
Nor am I willing to destroy my health and happiness by putting myself through the fury of being lied to every day, never mind all the accompanying abuse.
I could spend the next decade documenting that alone, but a few weeks ago Paul “Wee Ginger Dug” Kavanagh did something so indescribably despicable I can barely bring myself to refer to it even obliquely. Out of sheer demented hatred of me and loyalty to Nicola Sturgeon, and based on a complete falsehood, he harassed a friend of mine so grievously and so disgustingly (he was trying to get them to help him have me put in prison) that they ended up in hospital in intensive care and very nearly lost their life – something for which he’s shown no remorse whatsoever.
I’m not willing to be a catalyst for that. I’m not willing to see other people dead because of how much somebody hates me.
(I have my friend’s permission to publish the above paragraphs.)
Kavanagh and I are both fortunate that lockdown restrictions prevented me from going to the nice new home he’s bought with Yes voters’ donations and doing something I’d have regretted. (I’ve calmed down enough not to do it now.) The repulsive, wretched piece of slime can also consider himself very lucky that to spare my friend any more trauma I didn’t call the police over what he did.
But he’s only, and by a distressingly narrow margin, the very lowest of the grotesque, grifting, self-serving sewer scum that now infests every level of the independence movement. I said a few weeks ago on Wings that in the highly unlikely event of another indyref Yes would need to start with a clean slate of new faces, so irretrievably toxic are the relationships between those who campaigned in 2014, so as one of them I’m taking my own advice and setting an example in vacating the stage.
(Can you imagine going into a second referendum with nothing to offer as persuasion to undecided voters but Pat Kane, Lesley Riddoch, Gerry Hassan and Elaine C Smith again? Christ have mercy on our accursed souls.)
To be honest, the thought of those people celebrating Wings’ demise was the only thing that nearly stopped me from walking away. But carrying on to spite them would be letting them control my life just as much as if I’d let them shut it down before now, and I won’t give them that power.
In truth this would have happened weeks ago, over Kavanagh and when two crooked and hopelessly hamstrung inquiries whitewashed Sturgeon and her government over their criminal attempt to put Alex Salmond in prison with false sexual-harassment allegations. It was only the creation of the Alba Party that offered Scotland one last-ditch chance of salvation.
But an unholy alliance of the SNP and the Unionist media – sweetened by a tasty £3m bribe from the former to the latter – successfully managed to smear and silence Alba and ensure it had no voice in Parliament, and most crucially no base from which to build an alternative.
The party intends to carry on, which with the deepest respect and regret I consider a futility. We learned last week that Sturgeon has simply done too effective a job of poisoning its name and in particular that of its leader. Alex Salmond has been in the form of his life in 2021 – rejuvenated and ebullient, eloquent and fearless, despite the ordeal he’s endured in the last couple of years which would have crushed a lesser man to whimpering dust – but all to no avail.
The absolute hatred with which Alba was treated by brainwashed, goldfish-memoried SNP members under Sturgeon’s direction was jaw-dropping and horrifying. Even six months ago I would never have believed a pro-indy party led by the man who took the SNP from a nutter-fringe irrelevance to the all-conquering behemoth of Scottish politics could have secured less than 10% of the list votes of SNP supporters (especially when the alternative was completely wasting those votes), but in the end it never even got close to that figure because Sturgeon has turned the SNP into a hyper-obedient Stalinist personality cult.
(On the rare occasions the membership does try to summon up some courage, as with last year’s NEC elections, Sturgeon and her husband simply steamroller it, slashing and burning their way through all the party’s procedures and rules until they get the result they want.)
No matter how much passion, energy, reason, decency and dignity Alba continue to campaign with, I don’t think they can overcome that ugly collaboration of smearing between the SNP and the Unionist media. The defining characteristic of Sturgeon’s reign as First Minister, and just about the only thing she’s done with any competence or efficiency, has been the ruthless crushing of anyone and anything she considers a threat to her personal power.
So, since I haven’t actually spelled it out yet: Wings is over. We’ve said everything there is to say and I’m not going to spend the next five years pointlessly repeating myself while Nicola Sturgeon busily turns Scotland into a vicious, spiteful, intolerant, authoritarian and misogynist country I’ll be ashamed to come from and am already afraid to live in. The tragedy is just going to have to play out and the pieces be picked up afterwards, whenever that is and whoever’s left to do it.
So unfortunately you’ll have to wait for someone else to report on Bella Caledonia’s links (via its “poetry collective”) to the British Council, an organisation identified by the Sunday Herald a few years earlier as a wing of the British security services.
(The Herald is/was the paper of David Leask and Neil Mackay, so who’d know better about the activities of the British security services, right?)
And someone else will have to take you through the Scottish Government’s disturbing new Stonewall-driven “diversity curriculum”, including its now somewhat off-message and probably transphobic suggestion that there are in fact only two sexes.
And perhaps most upsettingly of all, it looks like we’ll tragically have to go before we find out from James Kelly what our dastardly masterplan was.
Wings would have been 10 years old this November. At that point, for the sake of one last straw-clutching chance to be proved wrong (or if Police Scotland finally do their job and arrest Sturgeon and Murrell for stealing the ringfenced fundraiser money) I’ll reassess the state of play and make a finally-final decision, but in truth I can’t imagine anything will have changed, and certainly not for the better. It’s time to find something else to do with my life, and having not done a Wings fundraiser in two years I need to pay the bills too.
The Titanic was irretrievably doomed two hours before it actually slid beneath the icy waters of the Atlantic, and as far as the campaign for Scottish independence goes this Parliament is simply going to be a more drawn-out recreation of those strange, surreal moments as the lights went out and hope drowned.
In our version of the band playing on, the site will remain live and you’ll even still get weekly cartoons until that point. Comments will be open for people to chat, but the actions of trolls have already ended the approval of new commenters and that will continue (along with any comments that get caught in the filters, so watch what you say). But we’re not going to spend thousands of pounds a year keeping it online indefinitely, so use the time to archive anything you want to preserve.
There also remains the question of what should be done with the money left in the Wings Fighting Fund (still a not-insignificant sum) and we’ll address that then. In the meantime I’ll resist the temptation to stuff it all into a rucksack and bugger off to Rio forever, and hope that Britain manages to come up with a nice summer to enjoy. After the last 14 months you’d think we’d all earned one.
The last nine and a half years have been an incredible honour. Thanks for everything. Between us, readers, we scared the living daylights out of the bad guys – the true measure of anything’s worth is how much its opponents attack it, and by that metric Wings was beyond price. Like the Spartans at Thermopylae, though, our true enemies wore our own colours and we didn’t see what they were doing until it was too late.
But I’ll remain proud of what we achieved until my dying day, and of the fact that we tried our best to warn everyone about the looming iceberg when it would have been a lot easier and more lucrative to stay silent and play along with the charade like the rest of Sturgeon’s tame shills.
(The honourable exceptions remain listed in the Wings links bar. Treasure them.)
David Baddiel used to do a routine – based on real events, he told me – about how much worse it is to be beaten up by the police than by a bunch of skinheads. (The word “skinheads” gives you an idea of how long ago the routine was.) Because when you’re getting beaten up by skinheads you can always hope the police come along, but when the police are beating you up in the back of a van it’s no good hoping for a load of skinheads to appear. If 19 September 2014 was getting beaten up by skinheads, last week was getting beaten up by the police. No saviours are coming.
Sometimes the odds are so stacked against you that you simply have no chance of winning. But there’s no shame in losing if you left everything on the pitch. The shame belongs to the betrayers, who threw the game for some ministerial baubles and a few more years of nice fat pension contributions from the taxpayer.
We’re entering a long period of darkness for the Yes movement. I hope we get through it. Goodnight, readers, and may your god and your guardian angel go with you.
I can see where you are coming from but after almost 50 years as a supported r of Independence I cannot yet accept that it is all over. I hope you will reconsider as Wings is an important bastion of truth amongst the garbage we are fed. And as you said, even the Tories have recovered from Hague and IDS.
But by all means take time out, you surely deserve that.
And finally I hope your friend continues to recover from the hate attack that put him in such grave danger.
And with that the light of truth is almost extinguished. Thanks for all you’ve done Stu and good luck in whatever you tackle next.
I’m upset reading this, but not entirely surprised. I share a lot of those feelings, and I also share your view of the darkness into which the Yes movement has fallen.
Please look after yourself. We need your journalistic ability, your integrity and your bravery. At the right time you’ll decide to help us out again. Of that I have no doubt.
A very good shift young man and thank you for your efforts and all the best in whatever you decide to do next. Good man.
What I would very much like to see now is a gigantic fuck-off coffee-table book containing every Wings post.
(With ‘Volume 1’ in wee letters on the spine.)
Cheers Stu.
😉
Thank you Stuart for all your work.
It’d be impossible to say how much it’s meant to us and our cause.
You’re doing the right thing given the disgusting nature of how some chose to conduct themselves under the guise of politics!
Your place in the history books is assured (cue someone else with all the facts and figures about the worlds most awesome indy site)
Truly a sad day Stu. As Bill Hicks might have said “it’s been a ride”. Thanks for the ride. I hope you can find joy in whats to come.
Oh no, you’re off, you’re going.
This is going to take some time to process.
But can I just say a huge thank you to you Stu?
We’ve learned so much from your articles – so, so much.
You’ve been incredibly generous sharing important information with us all.
I’m sure there’s lots of others will convey similar sentiments to you.
Enjoy your life with loved ones, that’s what really matters
Remember – memories and anticipation, and then we die!
I’m genuinely sad to hear this, Stu – but understand.
You’ll be sorely missed; I hope you find a way to keep us informed – and not to mention entertained – in future, somehow.
I know your approach is not for everyone, but it worked for me.
All the best.
This is as big a blow, probably bigger, than last week when no Alba MSPs were elected. I knew it was coming, but it’s still very painful to read.
Your blog has been my ultimate go to since I first discovered it in 2013 and I will be bereft without it. I truly hope we can make a difference with Alba in the months before you make your final decision. Like you, I don’t feel much hope in that.
It has been a wonderful experience reading your work, if you produce anything on any subject, on any platform in the future I will be delighted.
It’s not possible to thank you enough for all you have done in support of the people of Scotland; you have been a light shining in the murky depths of Scottish elite supremacy. You will be sorely missed.
The very best of luck in all you do in the future.
I’m so sorry. I don’t blame you though.
Oh! I’m feeling quite emotional as I’ve been following you since 2011, when I stumbled across you and Bella(a very different animal in those days) from my front room in steamy Bangkok at 6 in the morning.I was recovering from spinal surgery and a bit confined. I completely understand why you feel scunnered wi the lot o them. I am now hoping the “material difference” appears before it is too late.
It really is like the end of an era.
Go and have a good holiday you deserve it. Tomorrow is another day
Enjoy your time off writing the Wee Blue Book 2.
Honestly I think you are doing the right thing even though I’d rather you kept on. Most pro indy folk steal your ideas and articles and spin it in a different way but without doing your research. There will be a drying up all across the indy/YES movement without your articles.
Best of luck to ya Stu.
So sorry to see you go Stu, and thank you for all you have given in investigative journalism for the YES cause. I know your light is not extinguished. I wish you good luck in whatever you tackle next.
I too am focusing on other things from now, family hobbies and maybe more art.
Kind regards.
I’m very sad. I’ve followed Wings since 2012. I would urge you to think again because we need you.
However if you have lost your energy for writing this blog, maybe it is time.
I wish you every success in what you do. Thanks for everything and I’ve still got Wee Blue Books and Blacks books that I cherish.
I hope you think again. I say this, feeling quite emotional.
Sorry to see that it’s come to this, but can’t blame you for the decision.
So long, and thanks for all the fish 🙂
Folk won’t know what they had until it is gone. It is more than just the Rev we are losing here you sense. Total bummer.
I was expecting to read this sometime soon but it still saddens me to actually see the words in front of my eyes…
Thanks for everything Stuart.
I’m planning to get through the next parliament with a healthy dose of alcohol and video games so maybe I can still enjoy your journalism in a different field?
Well THEY will all no doubt be celebrating. I hope you’ll reconsider after having a long break, as long as you need. If not though, thanks for all you’ve done.
🙁
We missed the high tide, and not from any shortcomings of people like yourself.
Without a shadow of a doubt, a high tide will come again, a tsunami I’m sure. But for now, the ebb will hopefully expose the fishwife’s evil for all to see.
I speak for nobody but me, but a huge debt of gratitude to you for keeping the light burning. One day the mainstream media might wake up and see that exposing the truth is popular, and have the courage to report it.
I hope you come back.
Given recent events in Scotland I’ve been coming to the same conclusion as you have.
Enjoy the future.
A part of me will keep the hope of Independence alive but with not a lot of realistic hope.
Thank you
Proud of you too Rev for all that you have done. You have taken a lot of abuse from folks not fit to lick your shoes.
Today is a sad day and Scotland is in a very bad place indeed.
Thanks, you did your best. I am 70, I know I’ll never see Indy now. I had six weeks of hope with Alba, but it wasn’t to be.
Goodby, and thanks for all the fish.
God bless. X
Well, I don’t comment often, but being part of the journey of Wings and the hope of a brighter future for us all and the generations to come has been a privilege.
I certainly hope it’s not the end, but you have to do what’s right for you. I left the SNP this year after torturing myself for the last 3.
I wish you long life, good health and hope that we do hear from you in the near future and the sun rises again on our dreams of independence.
Cheers for all your efforts Stu – it took an awful lot of courage and if the system had been only 5 years less bent I think Sturgeon would have been toast.
Not bad from a room in Bath with a laptop.
All the best for the future, whatever it brings.
Cheers for now.
..look on the bright side
SNP are going to run the trains.
Get that wrong, leave people stranded in Edinburgh Waverly because of onoiging IT issues – and there’s no hiding from it. And they will get it wrong.
Because everybody does.
Covid allowed the SNP and Sturgeon to walk on water long enough to win this election. But it was not the thumping barnstormer they like to say it was.
This is peak SNP.
Strap in and watch them all get dirty in their own plague pit.
I knew this was coming ( I know, you told us), but that won’t make it any easier. I’ve become a wiser woman for reading your blog. I think you’re right in your decision to do something that suits you, I’m just gutted you’re going. Thank you for your time and all you and Mr Cairns have done ( your guest writers too). You’ll be missed.Take good care of yourself.
Like AS you caused a huge splash, the ripples of which are still being felt to this day, these wee pebbles are of little consequence and yes we are indeed trumped ….Scotland is forever indebted to you.
You will get always get a fine welcome here…..anytime yer passing.
Many of us have felt the same since the result and can totally see why you are bowing out. Some well-deserved privacy and anonymity are in order. Get on with life – nothing is happening here for 5 years, we know that now.
Take care and thank you.
Ian Brotherhood says:
12 May, 2021 at 5:22 pm
What I would very much like to see now is a gigantic fuck-off coffee-table book containing every Wings post.
(With ‘Volume 1’ in wee letters on the spine.)
—
I’d take a loan of that.
What Jim Scullion said.
Hopefully we are looking at a different picture come November but thanks for all you have done and all you have tried to do Stuart.
Thank you, Stuart.
apply your skills to undermining the Sturgeonistas. You did a great job on the green oddities.
There is no end to the “outing” you could do
But go and have a holiday – paid – use the money
Thanks Stu. I now know I’ll die and not see my country independent and I will forevermore hate the disgusting SNP for that. It was an honour to shake your hand in Edinburgh and take a turn with the Wings banner in 2014. I know you won’t but you should “ringfence” the money and bugger off to a jolly good holiday. Stay safe my friend.
Robert.
Hope, above all hope, that you’ll be returning in November.
Everything indy related is just so f@*%ing miserable and depressing right now; this news included.
Thank you.
Thank you for all your work and dedication. You were one of the first accounts I followed when I joined Twitter in 2014 and you have been a invaluable source of information throughout.
I wish you all the best and want you to know that true Independence supporters will always think of you with all respect possible.
I hope you get some time to relax a bit and enjoy life without the stress of all this .
You will be missed x
Saddened to lose the invaluable resource but fully understand the reasons why. Thanks for being the one go to source over the past ten years and enjoy the peace and normality of life outside what has become a toxic bubble. The only regret is the feeling that the bastards have won..
There’s a Alexander Solzhenitsyn quote. It seems fitting.
“You can resolve to live your life with integrity. Let your credo be this: Let the lie come into the world, let it even triumph. But not through me.”
Thanks Stu. I’ve followed you from the start and learned so much. I was one of your agents at the 2014 count. I will treasure my Wings bottle opener. Enjoy whatever else you are moving on to.
That’s a very sad read today Rev. Unfortunately, it was the only decision you could come to.
You leave with your head held high, you weren’t defeated or beaten down though no doubt, plenty will try to claim that.
Fuck them though and fuck what anybody thinks.
One day, we may be fortunate enough to wake up, check out the papers online and see the headlines that Mrs. Murrell has been forced to resign. That’s the day I look forward to and I’m pretty certain that we’re on the same page about that.
I wish you well Rev.
Absolutely gutted ?? Can we do anything to encourage you to continue your fantastic work?
I couldn”t have put it any better than how Jim Scullion put it at 5:17pm.
Stay Strong, Safe and Healthy Stu and thanks for all you have done for Independence.
I didn’t believe you would actually do this, but I can’t say I blame you. Only you know what a toll it has taken on your wellbeing.
I wish you well, my friend. I hope we can meet up in an independent Scotland before one of us dies of old age.
You will be missed Stu, sorry to see you go.
Sorry, man. You gave me hope. This is a blow. Look after yourself.
Stuart,
I know there will be many ideas about the fighting fund, my suggestion would be to use whatever amount is needed to keep Wings operational as an Indy hub, if that works and enough people agree.
I’m sorry to hear this but totally understand your reasons. Yes you can be a bit abrasive but journalists are never shrinking violets. If you feel it’s best for your health you must do it. But selfishly it will be a HUGE loss for the indy movement. We’d not have known the half of it without you and the BAD GUYS will be dancing in the streets of St Nikola tonight.
Obviously it is your friend’s decision and I know none of the background bar what was said above, however I could not rule out involving the police if the evidence is there. Please pass on my wishes for a speedy recovery.
Alba WILL rise. It’s might take a long while and they might need a new leader (with Salmond giving advice in the wings). But I’m not going to stop wanting indy and neither are the yes movement no matter the betrayal by it’s so called leaders.
It will be a gut wrenching loss Rev but totally understandable. I hope Alba can develop but agree that the road is a very long one. The scales will fall off the eyes eventually but it won’t be pretty. Us Wingers are just ahead of the curve on this and once you see it you can’t unsee it. A huge thank you from me because you have kept us sane but now at a cost to your own wellbeing. Awrra best.
Stu, we’ve never met but reading this has caused a knot in my stomach akin to the morning of 19th September 2014 and 24th June 2016. I feel like you are a friend, even a family member. You created something unique, special, irreplaceable.
You are a hero.
You deserve time off and away for your sanity and for others to realise the yawning chasm that will be now be left in your place. It is for the rest of us to organise and fill your unfillable shoes. Your forensic analysis combined with razor-sharp wit and insight has been the highlight of my day since I first started to follow you.
We will fight on, perhaps less eloquently, but no less passionately.
You will never be forgotten, should this be finally final by November, be assured that somehow your legacy will soar high over Scotland and beyond for ” … while a hundred of us remain alive, we will not submit in the slightest measure, to the domination of the English. We do not fight for honour, riches, or glory, but solely for freedom which no true man gives up but with his life.”
Thank you for being a major part of my life over the years.
I for one, with others, will not let your efforts have been in vain.
Your work will continue.
The world is a darker place tonight without your torch to guide us.
Your light will be left on to guide us.
For everything … thank you
I’ll be really sad to see you go, the best blog by a mile.
The twats can celebrate if they wish but they have not pushed you away, this is your decision.
You are a great journalist, don’t anyone tell you anything else but I can see why you want to leave.
How utterly despicable of WGD, who I haven’t read for at least a year now, to distress your friend.
I’ve changed as well, I used to get passionately insensed at the all round stupidity and ignorance of those around me, but now I just shrug.
If they want to keep taking the blue pill, who am I to disagree.
John Lennon did similar, fought for all he believed in but in the end he wrote God.
Don’t believe in …
…..
I just believe in me
Yoko and me
And that’s reality
I was the dreamweaver
But now I’m reborn
I was the walrus
But now I’m John
And so, dear friends
You’ll just have to carry on
The dream is over.
Personally as a regular contributer to your blog, you can piss off to Rio with the remaining funds and my blessings, if you so wish.
Thanks , the Indy movement will not be the same without you, i just hope youbare wrong (for once)
Good luck in whatever you decide to do, i know you will be successful.
Thanks again.
Hate to say this but I’m actually relishing the prospect of voting for Dougie Alexander or whoever Labour have replaced him by in 4 years time, assuming nothing has moved on Independence.
PS I agree with Ian Brotherhood, a great big Piss Off trilogy from the safety of your off shore financial haven
Thanks for everything.
Good luck.
WhatNeil says..
Neil Anderson says:
12 May, 2021 at 5:25 pm
This is as big a blow, probably bigger, than last week when no Alba MSPs were elected. I knew it was coming, but it’s still very painful to read.
Your blog has been my ultimate go to since I first discovered it in 2013 and I will be bereft without it. I truly hope we can make a difference with Alba in the months before you make your final decision. Like you, I don’t feel much hope in that.
It has been a wonderful experience reading your work, if you produce anything on any subject, on any platform in the future I will be delighted.
It’s not possible to thank you enough for all you have done in support of the people of Scotland; you have been a light shining in the murky depths of Scottish elite supremacy. You will be sorely missed.
The very best of luck in all you do in the future.
Best of luck Stu, however it goes. It’s always been interesting seeing your take on things
Thanks for the efforts over these 9 1/2 years!
There’s been no-one else like you in that time and that’s the biggest shame for Scotland.
Take a proper break before you do anything else.
I’m sure you’ll excel at whatever it is you want to do next.
Good luck for the future.
Please pass the keys to that massive archive you have to someone else who can preserve it for future use. Not just the many brilliant articles but all the sources and material that you can always pull out at seemingly a moments notice.
Jeez! Please don’t let Sturgeon remove Wings – the most valuable asset the Yes movement has had for the last decade.
No one commenting on Scottish politics has comparable investigative skills, are as funny or as fearless as you. Not even close.
I’m in tears reading your words. For you, for me, for Scotland.
If you leave the stage, the truth leaves with you.
With a Murrell dictatorship at the wheel, the intelligent, lovely Craig Murray sentenced to jail time, we Scottish independendistas need you more than ever. Please reconsider Stu. xx
I’m so sorry to read this news but your feelings are totally understandable. Many of us share the despair. Thank you for persevering as long as you did. And please, publish all of it in a book. It is an important historical record.
Take care of you and yours.
From an Irish supporter, thanks for a great site. I’ll keep logging in, in the hope that you reconsider.
In the meantime, Alba go bráth (Irish Gaelic).
Thanks Rev for all you have done for the cause.
We will rise again and I hope that you will be part of that.
Meanwhile in the land of Scotland, where the lunatics have taken over the asylum, I am also tucking myself in for a long sleep.
Have you thought about writing a book about current and future Scottish affairs – evidence based with an accompanying bold narrative (replete with cartoons from holiday boy) that will, at least, give us something to look forward to meantime?
Also if I was part of Scotland Now I would be on the blower to hire you as analyst in chief.
All the best and thanks for the best political blog ever!
Wings has been the first thing I have looked at on the net every day since I first discovered it in 2013. Its passing will leave a big hole and will only give succour to the opponents of independence, so I will hope for your return. But meanwhile, grateful thanks for everything you have done for the independence movement; I reckon that the Wee Blue Book alone outweighed everything the official Yes campaign did in convincing people of the arguments in favour of independence. It will have pride of place on my bookshelf, where I hope it will be joined by volume 2 in the future.
Best wishes for whatever you choose to do next. Your name will always be up there among the great and good when we do finally achieve our independence.
Hope your friend is recovering. That’s very concerning behaviour and you are wise to put some safeguards around yourself .
Only came here a few weeks ago to find out your take on independence from a comment in the Herald .
However I have noted direct quotes taken from here and become part of the fabric of others journalism! What on Earth are they going to do now !
Stay safe and I think we all need to chose life and happiness this year .
All the best Stu, hopefully see you sooner than you think.
Maybe Nicola will surprise us all.
Thanks for everything Stu.
Stu Campbell
Thank you for all your hard work over the years.
Thank you for not bowing to blackmail from those who now form Wee Ginger Dug’s wolf pack when they howled and threatened to try and force you to ban me for criticising Sturgeon’s SNP.
I haven’t always agreed with all of your views, as you haven’t with mine. But, I believe they were sincerely held and expressed by both of us.
I wish you good health and happiness.
I can’t say I’m surprised by this at all, I’ve wondered for some time now how you managed to keep going but now as you say it’s a lost cause, that was much was obvious as soon as the results came in.
Scotland owes you more than can ever be explained, you will be sadly missed for sure, the highlight of the day for me is when I receive a notification of an article by you.
Sturgeon most certainly has played a clever game, of course she has the whole establishment at her back so it’s no surprise that many just can’t see past the performance side of her.
I feel for Alex too, I truly hoped he was finally going to get some retribution and who knows maybe in 5 yrs time he will but my gut tells me differently.
Now I just need to work on getting out of Scotland as soon as possible, I can’t bear the thought of living in Sturgeons new Scotland.
All the best Stu and thank you for being the only person who has done more to further the cause of independence second to Alex Salmond himself.
We lost the battle and then sadly we lost the war.
I believe many will also give up the fight.
I’ve had a few bad dreams in my time but this takes the cake.
Stu, very very sad to hear of you’re friends difficulties and hopes he recovers soon, equally my heart is sad for you, if not more so,
You have been on the brunt end of everything nasty idiot viper tongue that could snark at you, with the intent that they scunner you into giving up, they have had a long fight.
You have been a pillar of strength in your ability to outlast many of them, beyond what I could ever bare.
But eventually the strongest amongst us cannot carry the burden alone, and as other Scottish sites have shown their true colours as fable, your honesty and integrity have shone like a leading light for genuine independence grassroots movement,
I have seen it coming for a while and Selfishly wished it to be otherwise.
Go and enjoy you’re life, go into the sun and spend the time with family and friends, make up for the time you have lost with them, which is precious, and smile big time,
Our best wishes go with you. You’re are a warrior amongst me,
Love from the Mrs an myself.
Thanks for all your hard work and effort over the years Stu.
May you find peace and enjoyment in whatever you do.
Lifes too short.
All the best.
so long and thanks for all the fish
salute
When you didn’t have an annual fundraiser I thought this day might come and you were keeping your options open as there were still options in play like the truth coming out, justice, success for Alba etc. As you eloquently explain these options have played out worse than any but the most pessimistic could have predicted. I will miss you enormously. It feels like I am losing a friend and one who has kept me sane through tough times sometimes with righteous anger often with laughter, always with the truth. But we have to let our friends make the best decisions for them and I can’t fault yours. I hope to see you again in some guise again in happier times but if not wishing you success happiness and love. No amount of thanks are adequate to your contribution. I will now go to take a month’s break from Twitter so I don’t stroke out at the imbecilic arseholes enjoying your announcement. Much Love xxx
Thank you
I came to Wings via Bella Caledonia, in the lead-up to 2014.
Lang syne, I abandoned Bella – that site was going nowhere. I have, however, been a daily Wings reader and a contributor. I value your tireless work for Independence, but, given the obstacles placed in your way, I can reluctantly accept your decision to shut the site down.
The really sad thing is, the dream of Independence has been perhaps fatally wounded – by Scots.
Parcels o’ rogues, such as the current SNP leadership, are still being bought and sold for English gold.
I mourn too the fact that between the stitch-up by Sturgeon and her clique and the work of the pro-Unionist media, Alex Salmond has been fatally wounded politically.
This has been a really dark week for Scotland. I can only echo the view of the late, great Private Fraser.
We are all doomed.
Completely understand Rev. You’ve been in the front line for years now and that takes its toll. Life is too short, so unplugging from the matrix makes perfect sense.
We all know what will happen regarding independence. I’ve reached the acceptance stage after spending the weekend fighting with my family, friends and online with SNP arsepipes who believe the blessed NS will deliver for our country.
So, whatever you do, please look after yourself and loved ones. There’s no one and nowhere else that one can find the type of information and critical analysis that this site offers, so the world will be a sadder place, as a result.
Cheers for everything…..
PS: If you want that Ginger prick sorted, genuinely it’s not a problem
Ain’t synchronicity an amazing thing?
This post appears just as WGD returns…
He’d’ve been as well calling his comeback post ‘Hello, I Must Be Going’.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=McCDWYgVyps
No further comment necessary.
Disappointed, but not surprised. Not shocked about WGD either, a nailed-on grifter.
I gave up around the time you were thinking about it, and considered deleting my Twitter account, which is now too depressing to read. But occasional things from friends show up there, so I just scroll past the crap now.
It’s now time for those who know things to find ways to bring the corruption and lying into the public domain. I doubt that any MPs have the balls for it, but Parliamentary Privilege has its uses. The corruption runs deep, and wide, but even Empires fall.
Sturgeon is a tinpot wannabe, not an emperor. And she has made too many enemies to last long.
Enjoy your retirement. It’s been real.
Awe ra best Stu. Gutted you are going but fully understand why. There is no justice. We are entering a dark period. As you stated by the time Sturgeon and Co leave the SNP will be obliterated…a non party…and I fear it’ll never be rebuilt. God speed Stu
You’re right, of course. The wretched, corrupt mess that is Scotland under the Murrell machine just isn’t worth the agony and the potential health consequences.
Appalled to hear about the WGD behaviour.
Craig Murray facing prison and Wings retiring from the scene. That sound we can hear is the jubilant rainbow woo-crew and NewSNP placepersons celebrating (on expenses-funded champagne) the demise of democracy, truth, freedom of speech and the spirit of Enlightenmnet in Scotland. Hell mend them.
Thank you Stuart, for enduring it for so long. Six months to get used to the end of Wings. It will take that, at least. What a desperately depressing era.
Awww man, am gutted. I hope that you’ll miss blogging as much as we’ll miss rpeading, and that when you’ve had time to chill awhile, you’ll come back into the fray. We need your forensic analysis of the shady political arena, we need it more than ever….. Au revoir, not goodbye, I hope.
Thanks for everything Stuart. You certainly opened my eyes.
Don’t overfeed the swans.
Enjoy the summer and all the best with whatever comes next, Stu.
You’ve put in a shift and can be satisfied that you informed and entertained those who visited these pages.
In the meantime, you will tip us the wink if you’ve written anything on other subjects? I’m aware of your site where you wrote about games and your travels and that kind of thing – can we expect the odd update there?
Have you considered a twitch channel playing old Speccy/Amiga games and the like or making fun of newer games? Or a YouTube channel (I’m aware Wings had one but I mean for games rather than politics)? Not your main medium, perhaps, but could be a laugh *if* you’d enjoy doing it.
May the force be with you, always
As the dreams of Independence burn on the pyre built by Sturgeon and the Yoons we can only wait until a new generation arrive who are not as apathetic, illiterate, wilfully ignorant, clueless, lazy, narcissistic, woke, snowflake, selfish and thick as this present lot. My heart goes out to you Stu. No one apart from Alex and yourself have done so much to further the Independence cause and to say you’ll be missed is a ridiculous understatement. But currently the world is now facing an onslaught of malaise regarding international affairs. You only need to speak to those who read the press and are blaming Palestinians for what’s happening in Israel. How we counter it is anyone’s guess but we will eventually need your help again to try to bring the unpalatable and uncomfortable truths to the public’s attention. So don’t say goodbye. You may be terminating the blog for the moment but like the Terminator please tell us “I’ll be back”. Missing you already mate.
Kind of knew this was coming. Gut wrenchingly hard to read this because it’s all so bloomin true. And I don’t blame you one bit for jacking it all in. We are going nowhere independence wise. Reverse gear in fact. I think the election last week was in fact our last shot. But clearly very few of the SNP supporters actually want independence. And the leadership definitely don’t. It’s just going to be another 5 years of absolute stasis. I despise every one of them for getting us to this point. Anyway, enjoy your summer and to hell with the lot of them. Bear Patrol awaits. It’s been a blast. X
I think you’re right, on both counts: the immediate future of independence, and about you fighting on. But it’s worth thinking – in a few years, Sturgeon will probably be gone; like Blair off to the big bucks on the UN, global job, talk-circuit and book-launch career (ten years is about as much as any of them can handle in practice). After 2024 it will be a decade since the loss of the only indyref, and the endless promises of Jam Tomorow (but Never Jam Today) will almost certainly start to look very hollow indeed (another reason Nikla may want to disappear). Maybe it’s true – you can fool all the people some of the time, and clearly we’re still in fool-them-all yet. But you can’t fool all of them all the time. This is peak SNP, peak Sturgeon and I really do suspect it’s downhill from now on for them. All the best. Thanks for it all.
Very sad to see you stop, please reconsider, we need someone to expose the truth. Hope your friend is well.
As for the fighting fund, I would suggest keep it and use it wisely, you have deserved it.
I hope one day, to read an essay from you, that both Murrells will also read from their prison cells, with Pete waiting to see who his cellmate might be, and Nicola wondering if her cellmate will be a man or a woman.
The truth will out, it always does, the sooner the better.
Good health and COYR.
Whilst reading this I’m listening to So Long by The Handsome Family which seems appropriate.
I came late to the site but I go to here and Private Eye to hear truth spoken to power and I go to The Herald and The Guardian for bought and paid for opinion in the shameless guise of journalism. Your work has not gone unappreciated, when you’re over the target that’s when the flak comes up and it’s when you started looking at the SNP and Greens that our true enemies revealed themselves.
Thanks Stu.
If Wings ceases, I hope someone else appears to fill the void.
A hard act to follow though.
Stu,
I felt this was coming for a while and your sense of foreboding matched mine. It seemed that no matter how many rocks were turned over or what horrors were revealed, they were so quickly and *easily* rolled back into place.
I sense there’s little chance of any forthcoming legal actions making any breakthrough and if and when that happens, the candle will truly have been extinguished.
You’ll continue to burn brightly, though. That’s what stars do.
You know where we are, just give us a shout.
thank you.
you will be back.
for tomorrow …
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AE1ct5yEuVY
– stay angry
Well that’s it then, we are totally fucked.
Think you are quite correct, no point in making yourself ill over these shits.
This forum has been a beacon of what media could be, the last refuge of truth, but the message is out of date, the people who supported Salmond in his effort to give the Scottish people a sense of national pride have left the building and those who now inhabit this country have other priorities.
Identity politics rules. God help us all and thanks for all your work and dedication.
I deeply saddened by this news. I can’t imagine who can fill your boots and bring us good journalism now. I understand why, but I’m finding it difficult to imagine life without WINGS. Good luck Stu.
Devastated.
Thank you for the truth, and the laughs (there were plenty) and the sheer unambiguous data and analysis.
I hope you can come back – I hope something gives you a good reason to do so.
At 67 I doubt I’ll see independence now. I joined ALBA after 38 years in the SNP.
I live in hope – but I fear the worst.
Take a good rest – and thanks for the memories.
I don’t know what I am more upset about, if watching how the results we were presented as official threw no Alba MSPs last week or seeing Wings close shop. I think it has to be the latter. It feels like a limb is being pulled away from me.
Thank you for your time, your research and your writing Stu. You have kept the light on during years of political darkness, unbelievable level of political and COPFS corruption in Scotland, uncertainty and despair. I only hope things look different in November and we see your excellent writing back, as Wings or as any new venture you choose to launch.
Your blog was the best in politics that Scotland could have ever wished for. Nothing came even close. Wings leaves behind a huge hole that I am not sure anything else can ever fill.
All the best.
I’m having the exact same feeling that I had on hearing the news that Alex Salmond would resign after losing the indyref. It’s the feeling by of grief, and realisation that our dream of independence is over.
Stu, you’ll be missed, and like you I can’t see anything changing any time soon.
Take care man.
Thanks for everything Stuart. You have done as much as anyone could possibly expect, and more. Your life and your family must come first. Scotland has become a very dangerous place for anyone who respects the truth and decency. I hope we all get through this period safely.
It looks like I won’t live to see independence after all.
Very sorry to read this. You have been a giant amongst men. Go off and find something else to do. You deserve it. Let’s see what happens in the next six months. Look forward to hearing from you again in November.
Not surprised and you have summed up my current view – unless something changes drastically Independence is a dead duck. Thank you for illuminating me since I ‘joined’ – memory is fading but 2013 I would think. I don’t share the optimism of some Indy supporters – we have really been f***ed over and the fact you have kept going this long despite al efforts to silence you. I expect PK will have a hissy fit but I don’t see it – I cut him free some time ago when he was nobbled.
As for the fund I know you will be fair but TBH if it is Rio I am not going to complain
Once again – thank you
Sad to read today but thanks again for all your excellent work, sourced facts and explanations – oh and sometimes humour, music and mostly great comments from those I shall also miss – most of us(probably)know who they are. This website will be a big miss for me but this older yesser also needs a break and focus on other priorities and I fully understand that need. All the best to you and yours and I remain in hope to read or hear from you sometime again in the future.
I’m going to miss your curmudgeonly output and language, ya moaning wee fucker.
You drew my attention to the genderwoo rabbit hole
And the gradual revelation of the Salmond fitup was beyond political eye-opening.
But the badguys won last week despite your valiant attempt to stop the desertification of Scotland
So I don’t blame you for riding off into the sunset.
Still think a referendum countdown clock was a good idea though.
Cheers, my man!
I don’t want you to leave Wings BUT I want you to get somewhere real and worthwhile with your tremendous abilities. So with a very heavy heart I’ll watch your ship set sail and hope that it ties up again in a welcoming harbour with good friends and companions and a successful way of making a living and showing off all your skills with the humour and wit you possess in abundance.
I always said to myself that I would try and meet you when we got independence. Now I have three sincere regrets in my life
No Independence
No meeting with Wings
Never having seen a picture of my mother who died when I was 7 months old.
I know I can live without any of them happening but it doesn’t seem really fair.
Take the fund. You’ve not put out a fundraiser for 2 years, essentially working for free. Take the fighting fund and enjoy the retirement.
I’d wager that almost everyone who has donated will have the same opinion.
At least the residents of Bath will feel much saviour with Bear Patrol being able to go full time now.
Safer*
Alas,alas,alas! I can’t tell you how much Wings has meant to me.
Thank you Stuart.
Keep in touch. You know you’ll be welcome back any time.
Everything seems to be making us unhappy at the moment and your announcement has just made it that much sadder.
We can’t leave Scotland to drown – we just can’t.
We need the shinning flame of truth because without it they simply win.
For, as long as but a hundred of us remain alive…etc…etc
The dream will never die and the fight will continue, we will be victorious.
Stu – Thank you very much for your huge contribution.
1] As mentioned above, if you are not doing so already, please consider writing a book. What a focus that could be.
2] Don’t go on any late night drives without a companion.
Best wishes
Tiocfaidh ár lá
Thig Ar Latha,
Good luck . Awe ra best.
Wha’s like you? Damn few’ and they’re A’ deid! Your no deid yet lad. Keep the faith.
Thanks for everything,Stu. You’ve done much, much more than a mammoth job. I feel the same but will stay on remote station. Hope is the last thing to die but realism rules. In the future I hope you have reason to open again. Thanks again, Stu. You deserve the very best of luck.
This is a sad day, since 2013 this was my go to website when I woke up. Stu your articles and humour have motivated me for years and with your passion and insight I decided in 2019 to return to Scotland after 40 years to take up the fight for independence. I have been shocked at what this country has become, specifically the chancers filling their pockets, stealing from donations, lying through their teeth and laughing at the Indy supporters. Add in the independence industry hangers on and you see we are being screwed. Like you I have come to the conclusion that it is time to stop and enjoy life. I never will see an independent Scotland, that boat has sailed thanks to the SNP.
Stu I understand perfectly your decision and I wish you well in all your future endeavours. Alex, Craig and you have been an inspiration for a nation.
As Nana said.
You have been treated appallingly by the nastiest group of people I have had the misfortune of being governed by. Also by so-called “journalists” in the BBC and MSM. Let’s not forget the Met Police either.
That is the proof of the quality of your work and your dedication to the truth.
I am sure if you spot an opportunity to make the difference, you will step in again.
Bless you.
Rev Stu Campbell.
I respect, indeed more than respect what you have done for the independence. Ten years with your shoulder to the wheel with well researched, well written and informative journalism. Superb campaigning books like the Wee Blue and Wee Black books.
And readership beyond any other and the envy of mainstream press.
No wonder you were loved by friends seeking truthful comment and hated by the scum so extant in our so called independence party the SNP.
And a light has gone out not just with you stepping back but with a rotten and corrupt party at the helm of devolved government and state well prepared to jail political.
It is therefore difficult to see any democratic political way forward. Much the same as the way the Nazis came to power – bit at a time, bit at a time, we move ever towards a totalitarian state – and of course the state now has all of the weaponry to keep tabs on everyone whilst being able to step in with force as required – and a yesterday’s jailing of Craig Murray shows.
So haste ye back Stuart Campbell. I and many others hope you will come back. The dream will never die especially as the reality of the coming years will show to the hapless who threw away the keys to a better future.
I don’t blame you Sir. I don’t agree with your premise, but you’re being let down by the movement that inspired you with its fools’ errand as well as, in fact more so, by the nincompoops and bigots who comment hereon, generally with irrelevant foul-mouthed tosh. Goodnight and good luck.
“There’s a Alexander Solzhenitsyn quote. It seems fitting.
“You can resolve to live your life with integrity. Let your credo be this: Let the lie come into the world, let it even triumph. But not through me.””
I hadn’t heard that one, but it brought a lump to my throat that might have done for the Titanic by itself. Thanks, and to everyone else too for your kind words.
Thank you @RevStu May your god bless ya!
If it hasn’t been said already, Stu, the opposition will get a real scunner if you comeback after a break.
But if that’s not to happen, then you deserve far too much respect and appreciation for me to say anything unaccepting of your decision.
With very best wishes.
Ps. I believe in miracles.
Whatever your decision down the line, you’ve been a great servant to the cause of independence. Those manipulated into hating you on our own side will eventually see who’s genuine and who is not.
This is not over though, Alex Salmond woke the country up and we now have the support required to get over the line. If the SNP don’t deliver they don’t survive. With Alba providing alternative home, NowScotland uniting the grassroots and AUOB taking us to the streets, we will win. Don’t make any decision that’s too final, you’re needed more than ever right now, even if that’s hard to see at the moment.
Sad to see you go. I don’t have a fraction of your stamina so completely understand your decision.
Best wishes and thanks for the WBB!
P.s there’s no shame in changing your mind again 🙂
An understandable but sad decision; thank you so much for everything.
I’ve been reading this site from way back, thanks for everything you’ve done down the years, you’ll be missed, and good luck with whatever you do next!
I also think there will be no referendum for five years, so we may as well just be ready to pick up the pieces once the current lot have ruined it.
Thank you, Stuart. I can’t blame you for your decision – in fact, I’m only staggered you’ve stuck it out so long given the relentless vitriolic attacks against this site (often motivated by transparent envy), not to mention the personal risks. The latest developments involving your friend sound particularly distressing. Sometimes you just need to stand back and see the lay of the land.
I’ve learned so much from your articles and other output, as well as from Wings commenters. It really shouldn’t need to be said at this stage in the game – you shouldn’t expect to agree with every word or idea, but you should expect to think about them. There’s been some quality entertainment along the way too.
All the best for whatever your life takes you in the future – whether it’s a return to your first true love of gaming (somewhere I cannot follow – sorry, I just do not get it), or new horizons. Selfishly, I expect to be much more bored and much less informed, but given the inevitable slough of despond of the next five years, maybe that’s for the best.
Thanks for everything.
The is exactly how I feel Stu. The final nail in the coffin for me was the measly 44,000 list votes that Alba received – many more than that read Wings so I can’t understand why so many Wings readers didn’t vote Alba on the list. Hope briefly shone again with Alba after there were no consequences for trying to jail an innocent man because he posed a threat to the Glorious leader’s political career. Scotland has treated Alex Salmond abysmally and will never find someone as effective, commanding and intelligent to bring them to independence. Some countries really deserve what they vote for and Scotland will get its reward soon enough from Queen Nic.
I’m luckier than most since I haven’t lived in Scotland for over 10 years now (I don’t like to broadcast this to avoid those annoying f*ckers who think I shouldn’t have any say in Scotland’s future). Ireland is now my home and while there are many issues plaguing this country, few are as bad as many of the issues Scotland continues to face, even under the SNP (life expectancy, poverty, falling education standards, GRA, Hate Crime Bill, etc). There is no magic bullet that can fix what’s broken here – Ireland already has its independence so it’s easy not to expect the future will improve much here. But I had hoped for a better future for my family and friends and fellow countrymen back in Scotland (had done so for almost 40 years), especially given how poor the country is. But now, given the dire standard of politician in Scotland, I no longer believe independence would’ve been all that beneficial to Scotland either. Maybe the unionists have been correct all along and Scotland is too stupid to govern itself.
Like yourself, I was beginning to tune out of all the crap online – I’ve muted Twitter alerts, left Facebook groups and was planning on somehow stopping the alerts for your emails (I wouldn’t have been able to unsubscribe though). However, you’ve saved me the effort having to do so.
I’ve been a dedicated follower of Wings and your standard of investigative journalism is bettered by none, certainly by none of the hacks in Scotland. I had a place reserved for you in Scotland’s future Museum of Independence as a voice of truth and author of the Wee Blue Book. Who knows whether that museum will ever be built now.
For me the election list results had cut very deep and still continue to depress me. I can’t imagine what toll the past 10 years have had on your mental health and it’s time to focus on ourselves now.
Have a vote on what to do with the Wings Fighting Fund. Make sure you include the option for you to retire from reporting on Scottish politics on it – I don’t see any use for it any longer and I think you deserve it considering what little salary you’d been drawing over the past 10 years, and what awful sh*t you’ve had to endure and continue to endure, courtesy of Wee Nasty Dog.
I was about to write that Scotland will eventually get its independence, but only when the oil runs out and it becomes a financial drain to Westminster. But in reality, we know that Scotland is a net contributor to the UK’s finances, even without oil. Now, for the first time in my life as I approach 50, I’m no longer sure I’ll see Scotland independent before I leave this mortal coil, so deeply the Murrells have poisoned Scottish politics.
And you were wrong about Paul Kavanagh – you should have reported him to the Police. People like him only understand the consequences of their actions when those actions directly affect themselves. To think that back in 2013/2014 I thought he was one of the good guys.
Sayonara Stu, we’ll all miss you.
I have only been following this website since January, which is nothing in comparison to many on here.
In that time, I have found the journalism to be absolutely addictive and I have never said that before of any journalism.
By the way, I noticed on Guido Fawkes yesterday he used your anaolgy of the ‘butterfly on the wheel’ and gave much the same analysis of the Craig Murray situation that you gave a few hours earlier.
I will also miss Willie, Mia, Famous 15 and all the rest of them too.
It’s a minor disaster this, but all the very best of luck in the future. This was a project you can be rightly proud of.
Thank you Stu, for all you have done.
I’m off too, for many of the same reasons, including not giving up any more of my years left on the planet fighting what seems like a lost cause.
My admiration and respects to you, and I hope you enjoy your holidays, and the remainder of your life, without regret.
My heart is literally breaking reading this Stu. Seriously it is!
You have taken us on an honourable, honest journey in the pursuit of freedom and justice!
Scotlands heros have always been betrayed by those supposedly on the same side. You, Mark hirst, Alex Salmond, Craig Muray and others who spoke out and stood tall have been betrayed. History will judge the betrayers.
The laughter and cheering of the betrayers will fall silent. You my friend though we’ve never met are a credit to Scotland and another hero in your countries long list of brave , dignified individuals.
May God speed and protect you in future.
Thank you Stuart Campbell
Sorry to see you go, and thanks for all the work you put into the wings website.
ive still got a copy of the blue book along with the black one. Might be worth something some day, never know 🙂
Thanks, Stu! It’s sad, but I completely understand why you’re doing it. Scottish politics won’t be the same without you, though. Take care!
Your thorough analysis of all things political will be a great loss.
Unionists will be relieved at Wings demise.
I can understand how you feel. The selective Murray and Hirst prosecutions have undermined any faith I once had in the impartiality of the legal system in our country.
Grim years ahead politically and in every day life in post Brexit Britain.
Thank you for your efforts over the years Stu.
Very sad.
Thank you Stuart.
Jesus! As shocks go this is a biggy, I was one of the first handful of people that joined your blog in 2011, I know that it was you & this blog that brought more people across to the yes side than any politician has done. I had voted SNP for 54yrs, my last vote for them was in 2016.I was a member for many yrs, but I left the party in 2018, as soon as the STITCH up became public about Alex.
I have not trusted STURGEON SWINNY or any of her cabal to be honest since then. My first recognition that STURGEON would never be the leader Alex was, was in 2015 when we sent 56 SNP MPs to W.M What a triumph that was, majorities in both Parliament’s yet we never even got one extra power from the LIST of promises we were promised in 2014 if we just voted NO.
To watch Sturgeon run to LONDON to take to the stage with people like Alistair Campbell in her QUEST for even more publicity as she tried to save England was the last straw.
I had dreamt since his trial & being found innocent that Alex would come back with a party of his own.. When he announced ALBA I signed up right away as a founding member.
I will be doing all I can to help ALBA win sone councils next year, then some more MPs in 24, And by then, I can only hope & pray that the majority yessers will have found STURGEON out. And will put Alex back where he belongs into our Scottish Parliament, the “PEOPLE” can overcome Sturgeon & the nasty lot in the SNP today.
We can rebuild, But it will take either Alex or someone of his calibre to do it. the SNP I hope, will be finished as a party, after all, she has destroyed that too, just as you said BLIAR did with Labour.
God knows how the movement will get on without you to do the wonderful debunking of the Brit Nat Press & it’s LiES. But, I understand why you need to do what you are doing right now. I just hope you DO come back, stronger & angrier to tear a few strips of the ("Tractor" - Ed)s of this land. Take care Rev & all the best for the future & Thank You for your part in making this country FEEL like a winner in the run up to the 2014 Referendum. You WILL be missed Rev..
I’ll miss your posts and your great writing, Rev. Thanks for it all and thanks for anticipating my question of whether the site would be left as an archive. I’d better get to work on that.
I’ve not been reading the blog for as long as many others and came to it looking for views opposed to my own. I found evidenced, well-reasoned if sweary argument. Every time I read a post and thought ‘that can’t be true’, especially over the course of the last disgraceful year or so, eventually I found it was true, just not spoken of by mainstream Scottish media. The indyref2 fund, the NEC shenanigans, etc. If only more people read your work with an open mind. Ah well.
Enjoy life. I hope you get back to writing and publishing your political analysis in some way.
So sorry to read this , you’ve certainly opened my eyes over the last wee while
Best wishes to your friend
As for the funds , they were donated to you as a thank you for your tireless work so bugger off to Rio if you wish , with my , and no doubt many others blessing
Please come back in some guise though
Thank you very much for everything over the past decade, I hope you change your mind in November but good luck either way. We’ll miss you.
You were always ahead of your time, Stu. As is Alba. I hope they keep working away in the background, getting their ducks in a row because sooner or later their time will come when those duped by perfidious Sturgeon eventually realise they really do need somewhere else to go.
I’m sorry you won’t be around to fight the gender lunacy, that’s where I’ll be directing my focus from now on because there’s definitely no point in wasting any more energy on the futile indy cause, that’s for sure.
I’ve stopped feeling sorry for myself now:-)
Write a book and maybe a miracle will happen while you’re doing it. I reckon you could do an Adams type of fiction quite well. You’re great at the oddball view of the world.
“The ships hung in the sky in much the same way that bricks don’t”
Is one of the finest metaphors in the English Language but I reckon you could better it:-)
Don’t even think about the money, Over the years I reckon you’re worked for about £3 an hour on average.
I hope your friend is recovering and that people do suffer for their sins
If we have a referendum will you come back and help?
Thank you Stu. You’ve been a beacon of hope for so many of your fellow countrymen and women, shining a light in the darkest and murkiest of places where few of us would have dared go except for your lead. You have made this latest, most shameful period in our history, bearable and have given many of us the strength to carry on believing that better days were to come and that better people would be there to lead us through it.
It’s small wonder that you need to walk away for now. Your efforts have been heroic and god knows you must need a rest, to recharge and to rethink. But please don’t stay away too long. Scotland needs you.
Down among the sma’ folks things are stirring. We’ll keep a light on. And we’ll wait till we see you and your bonnet again. Till then – a sincere and heartfelt thank you.
We salute you Rev. Our Wallace of Words.
Stu THANK YOU for everything, every single thing. You are a legend in your own lifetime.
I am angry and upset at those who harassed your friend and yourself.
I have followed you for years and will continue to look out for you again, I can only hope.
Your writing is forensic, intelligent and often hilarious even if it’s about something or someone awful.
Thanks especially for standing up for women and children’s rights.
I hope you enjoy your time and find something you love to do, are good at, and find joy in.
I am keeping my hope in Alba. Your crystal ball is never wrong but maybe in a few years we will have our independence. If and when we do, a huge part it will have been because of your work.
Thanks for everything Stu ,especially opening the eyes of so many.Good health and much success going forward my friend.
Fucksake min…
What the actual fuck.
Fucking hell.
Fuck.
:0(
I’ll be sorry to see you go, I’ve been a reader almost from the start but imagine being in situation where we hope something titanic happens to knock the New SNP off it’s pedestal. From an optimistic mind, she can’t hide behind covid for much longer and surely can’t keep giving the media bungs to hide their dirty secrets. The missing Indy fund & next published accounts might start a wobble, add the court case. It might even be the ridiculous MSPs they chose because let’s face it more than one won’t cope if one already wants to spend like an MSP! Imagine the crash and burn with all that extra cash, parties etc. All these things could reveal the stench of sleaze and corruption to bring the house of cards tumbling down. Something has to give that will put fire in your belly again, even make you laugh to keep going. We know the NEW SNP like to wield their toxicity to shut people out but even that can’t last forever, they’ll be swallowed by it themselves. Take care of yourself
Gutted!
I can only hope that something along the way between now and November clicks and changes your mind because there still exists a BritNat media needing debunked. And *NOBODY* does that better than you.
Until then i’m not saying goodbye. But i will say *stay safe* as there very well could be attempts to ensure you never make any comebacks.
And can i add that you really should contemplate writing that book OR a series of reference books based on all your archives. Covering all the main topics of Defence, NHS & Pensions etc etc.
Thank you for all your contributions thus far. Priceless!
Thanks for all you have said and done Stuart. You have opened my eyes to much truth in the world, and it will be a smaller place without you and this blog in it. All the best for the future.
Where can I go for the truth.
Giesabrek @ 6.22pm :- The reason that the Alba party got less votes than the amount of folk that use this site is because the site has been infiltrated by unionists for quite some time now.
Stu, thanks for all you’ve done for the cause of independence. How you’ve kept going so long given the abuse from so many quarters is beyond me. The one ‘plus’ if there is one for me is that I will now live in almost complete ignorance of what Sturgeon & her creepy cos-play cadre are upto.
I don’t watch TV, or read newspapers anymore. Wings was where I got the majority of my news with regards what was going on politically in Scotland. I didn’t always agree with everything you said, or how you chose to say it, but I was glad you were there putting it out there.
Stay safe, and healthy, and once again thanks for everything you’ve done for the cause of Scottish independence. I’m a few years younger than you are and I don’t believe I’ll ever live in an independent Scotland now. You’ll be missed.
P.S. If you’re looking for a hobby that is relaxing, and good for the soul, gets you out and about in the fresh air then try Birding (there’s more of them around than bears….and more variety than your Mute Swans).
Stu
I can’t say I am surprised I was expecting your decision. I thank you for your selfless service to the Independence movement. During a joyous exciting 2014 Independence campaign your wee blue book saved my bacon on the streets when I got asked awkward questions. You have got 10 good years of creative work left in you. I wish you well. Me, we will be leaving Scotland in our own time. But it’s not me they have to worry about. My children are looking at their options. And they are far more successful than I ever was. Goodness knows where Scotland will be in 5 years. COYR.
Gutted about this news. The world is going to absolute sh*t. I dread to think what the next 5 years will be like. There’s an awful lot of people who are going to realise they’ve been absolutely hoodwinked these last few years and it’s only going to end in tears. I’ve decided I’ve had enough. Time to emigrate to NZ and get the feck out of Dodge. I wish you the very best in your future endeavours and thank you once again for the hope you brought to us all.
Stu thank you for everything. It’s a sad day but then it’s been a sad few years, seeing what this country has become.
The only (small) hope I have is that the whole truth will come out one day and the Murrell empire will fall.
All the very best in your new career whatever that is. Look after yourself, and thanks again.
Stu, thank you for everything.
Would you ever consider handing the reigns over to someone you trust? As you’ve pointed out several times Wings is the most popular pro-independence blog by a significant margin. It would be a crying shame if that mass readership goes to waste.
In any case I will miss your posts. You never suffer fools gladly & your dedication to the pro-independence effort is without question. The Wee Blue Book in particular was one of the best materials used to win people over during the 2014 campaign. Our movement just won’t be the same without you… 🙁
Sad to see you going Stu. I’ve been here since ’13 ( though it was many years before I posted). Best of luck with whatever you decide to do.
I keep thinking of an SNP member I met a few years back (in the run up to the 2015 general election campaign to be exact). Guy must have been in late 60s, been a member of years, passionately wanted independence, genuinely lovely bloke.
Thousands of honest indy people like him will never see indy – I’m 45, I’m not optimistic I will to be honest.
What the Sturgeon cabal have done to good people like him is utterly reprehensible. I don’t for second believe in such things but they deserve to burn in hell for the betrayal.
Stuart, again, thank you for everything and I 100% understand your decision. It is making me distraught though cos there is literally no Scottish political media I can now consume. As I alluded to in my previous comment I want to forget about politics and just kill bad guys in video games for the next 5+ years but I don’t think I’ll be able to do that.
“And once you are awake, you shall remain awake eternally. ”
And we have to carry on without our Wings bullshit-filter…?
We always joke that as Scotland football (etc) fans the worst part is the hope that we might do something but we never do. I’m not sure about that – this feels like hope finally dying and it feels fucking awful.
Well, I hope you’re wrong but I suspect not. So long and thanks for all you’ve done…Hopefully, see you on the other side
“We salute you Rev. Our Wallace of Words”.
What a wonderful way to be described. There are few higher honours than this.
You cant feckin leave Stu!! We’re at a stage in the process where we NEED your journalistic expertise!!
We’re aw pissed right off at the way the election went, and it may take a couple years for the brain-dead cult to realise, but they will, as long as we keep chipping at them.
Our country’s independence is normal, paramount, and absolutely necessary. Don’t let these half-baked twats in new SNP deflate you.
Sturgeon f**cked the SNP for her own gains.
We have a new movement, you have to be part of it
Can’t say I blame you.
Your truthseeking will be missed.
Sad to hear but your analysis is spot on as always. Wings has become my primary news source so you’ll be sorely missed.
Thank you Rev Stu. What a bright star you shine and what a miss you will be. I`m sad tonight reading this. How will Scotland ever know the truth of things with you gone and Mr Murray in prison.
I made the wife read `Living in Oceania`, she`s not recovered yet…
From a Geordie living in France I send my best wishes for whatever you do next and a huge thank you on behalf of truth lovers everywhere.
Independance is there Scotland, ignore Holyrood, take it.
Fuck. Sturgeon, I will never forgive you.
A big thank you for all your efforts.
If there’s going to be a fundraiser for a Wings farewell then I’m in just to have it stick in the craw of the gravy gang. All the
best in whatever you decide to do.
Stu,
I’ve tried to put into words how much of this is a blow on a personal level, because you were and remain someone who fought tooth and nail for the truth. It pains me to see you leaving and Wings finishing.
Yet for all that I’m surprised you lasted as long as you did. Because this must have taken a toll. Like you I have managed to predict the big moments of politics – I knew we would lose in 2014 but I knew it would be close. I knew that Brexit vote would be called and that it would be leave. I knew Trump would win. I knew Biden would win as well. I know that had we had an Indepedence Vote in 2019 or even last year it would have been won thanks to Brexit being the cataylst.
I joined Alba because they were talking my language on every point more than the SNP had ever managed. I believe the Jury got it right for Salmond. I believe the SNP has used my donation to the £600k fighting fund. I’m convinced that the establishment now includes the SNP leadership which is why Salmond was punt on trial despite the evidence being so poor, why only those who support Salmond have been held in contempt of court. I see the Hate Bill and I fear for my freedom of expression. I see the Self ID plans and fear for the sanity of a nation who can’t see how exceptions will take advantage of loopholes to inflict harm or indeed propser at the expense of women.
I don’t know if I want to live here anymore – this isn’t the Scotland we voted for in 2014. I don’t know if the SNP leadership has been nobled by the UK establishment, I have no idea if it’s a case of power corrupting.
But I do know this. Despite what Hollywood tells us, bad guys win. And they win big and they keep winning time after time after time. While the arc of history does bend eventually towards justice it doesn’t stop the rich and powerful. Nor do the bad guys play by the rules even the rules they make up. Too many people believe that the rules are fair and even and treat all as equal – and they don’t like it when it’s pointed out to them they are idiots for trusting.
You more than most perhaps more than all, fought for Scottish Independence using just the word of truth – you’ve been right on just about everything and I fear you are right that nothing can stop the SNP leadership now from failing to do Justice to Scotland. I hope we are both wrong, I hope that some how Justice will prevail, but I doubt it – The rest of Europe will look at us as failures again for not actually delivering the almost easy win.
You sir are a Legend thank you for all you have done.
May I suggest “Silent Running” by Mike & The Mechanics right now.
You are right to go the movement has left you rather than visa versa. I don’t know how right you are but it no use sniping from the sidelines. Maybe when your head is right you can rejoin the fight
A tough gig rev thank you very much. Dip into the fighting fund and enjoy yourself for a few months you deserve it and I doubt anyone would complain.
Thank you for all the excellent work. Hope to see you back when the cabal turns in on itself. Only a matter of time, but could be a while. As for my donation, keep it. It’s been worth every penny, take a long holiday.
Lothianlad says:
12 May, 2021 at 6:39 pm
“We salute you Rev. Our Wallace of Words”.
What a wonderful way to be described. There are few higher honours than this.
——————-
So very true LothianLad, and with Big Eck as The Bruce. I just hope Stu’s fate doesn’t mirror Wallace’s, even metaphorically 🙁
And you were so right about Scotland’s true heroes being stitched up. As has been quoted above they’ve been betrayed by “a parcel o’ rogues, bought and sold for English gold”
Stu,
I arrived here in 2013 via google. I don’t say very much but I think I’ve read every post and occasionally brought others with me.
I will be eternally grateful to you for your hard work, wit and most of all, your honesty.
I totally understand and respect your decision. Looking after No 1 is something we can forget, but it’s important.
I will remain signed up for alerts just in case. None of us are going anywhere and if, in time, you decide to build again, we will come.
You did a great job, so you should have no regrets.
Take care
They couldn’t hold a candle to you, just one man, but so meticulous.
In the aftermath of Indyref 2014 I went researching the Nobel Peace Price for your efforts with the Wee Blue Book – I thought it that impressive. You won’t be surprised to learn that when I sought advice from ‘experts’ within the ‘too stupid to breath and too cowardly to stand – both votes SNP brigade’ they poured cold water all over the idea.
Thank you for everything, you really haven’t left anything in the cupboard.
Things are going to get much worse in Scotland before they get better – and the SNP are going to have to own it.
Actually they are already worse – the behaviour of – at best – disingenious, and at worst, utterly poisonous – former Yes supporters is disgusting.
Whatever I choose to do, here on in, it will not be to mitigate SNP corruption and inaction on Indy.
But in all honesty, Wings was my rallying point, the articles and the info btl. So big re-evaluations all round.
Whatever you chose to do, take very good care of yourself, best wishes, and thanks forever. PS you have my e-mail, keep it and use it when ever, specially if you need help.
If ever there was a need for someone with bottle to snuff out the corrupt self serving useless state of Scottish politics it is you, Rev C.
Seeing that wee lassie MSP that not one person in Scotland actually voted for by name, post her first words by moaning she had to wait a month to get her wages from her 64 grand + expenses salary, summed it up for me. Shows where her priorities are. The idea of her and her yoke negotiating with hard faced Tories is as depressing as watching Bla Bla Blackford getting the piss ripped out him for another 5 year. What an utterly humiliating state for this once proud nation. SNP is a ponzi scheme.
Thanks for everything you’ve done and for everything you tried to do, all of it was the good fight.
There’s always a final encore, btw – and we’d all very much like to see that gig.
Take it easy, man.
Kenny Turner
There’s a crack, a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.
Thank you.
Sad but understandable news. However the fight goes on we will be free
I left Bella because it became poisonous.
I left WGD because it became poisonous.
I left Twitter because it became poisonous.
I’ve stopped reading comments on HYS on the BBC Website because it became poisonous.
I’ve stopped reading the various MSM Comments section because it became poisonous.
I have, however, always stuck with WOS despite some of the attempts of the trolls to derail the conversations.
I very rarely posted here, my total post count since 2013 must be around the hundred mark.
For what it’s worth Stuart, you have done an incredible job, you didn’t just try your best, you succeeded, you leave WOS with the highest readership count, that isn’t failure.
The failure is on those that failed to heed the warnings or were to blind to see the dangers.
I have cast my last ever vote in any elections, I will only vote for Alba if they field a candidate in my area.
Scotland is lost to me, My Grandfather in the 80’s thought I would see independence in my lifetime, we were so close, if only we could have persuaded those 200,000 that voted NO and voted YES instead, we wouldn’t be feeling as if our futures have been destroyed, we would have been an independent nation.
So, I just want to give you my heartfelt thanks for everything you written over the years, to the fellow posters, the debates were fun at times.
I will miss WOS and I am thankful it played a part of my life in the last 8 years.
THANK YOU.
A sad day, but in my heart I think you’re right. You’ve been a light in a dark place and for that, I thank-you.
Wings was instrumental in bringing us to the brink in 2014 and for that, you deserve all the credit you receive. I’m not going to sit here and blow a load of smoke up your asre, but I am going to miss your insights.
Sadly, I’ve been saying the same thing to numerous people lately. Sturgeon took me for a fool for slightly longer than she did with you, but I consider myself to be a good eighteen months ahead of the majority of her sheep. Not that it helps me sleep any better.
Good luck with whatever you opt to do for gainful purposes Stu. I’ll still be here, looking in, as I’ve done for the best part of a decade.
Where will the vitriol and hyperbole come from if you go??!!!
All the best Stu, hope you find something positive to focus your energy on going forward. You’ll be missed.
Don’t blame me you. You can’t help people if they don’t want to help themselves. Gaming is much more fun.
I’d like to think that one other event that may bring you back is the day Nicola Sturgeon is charged with criminal offences, it’s a long shot but I live in hope.
Malky says:
12 May, 2021 at 6:51 pm
“Where will the vitriol and hyperbole come from if you go??!!!”
Looks like you’ve already filled that position trollboy…
I have never commented before here which just shows how much this latest post has upset me. I do hope you will reconsider. I thank you for giving us forensic and detailed journalism and considerably advancing the cause of Scottish independence through this blog with your Wee Blue Book and the subsequent Wee Black Book. I may not always have agreed with you, or liked the language (although the sentiments behind the language were correct), but your presence will be greatly missed. With the demonisation of Alba, the both votes SNP nonsense, the jailing of Craig Murray, the ongoing shenanigans in the SNP, and the trumped up charges and cover up over the Alex Salmond case the forces of darkness are strong at the moment. Another light has gone out.
Well I for one say thank you. For the hard work you’ve put in for indy, the hours of research you’ve done. And im absolutely scunnered that it means nothing to those snp cultists because of cognitive dissonance cos Nicola says so. Actually got a tear in my eye. I’ll fucking miss reading your articles and blog. You’re one of the highlights of my sad little existence. Thank you for trying to help me remain on twitter 2 summers ago too. A lady never forgets. Enjoy the time you have left in this world. The years they pass quickly. A very sad farewell sir, and once again. Thank you x
Hi there,
Dammit, I was just beginning to catch up after many years overseas and the truth just flew out the window.
Can’t blame you mate, it must be truly dispiriting trying to push shit uphill day after day, year after year.
You have done great.
Final note, after 40 years in business here, there and everywhere there isn’t one of the current wankers who I would hire to clean the toilets.
Best we just ignore them for the next five years and maybe they will self implode.
All the best for your new horizon.
Stuart – I am sad to learn this. I’ve been reading your articles since 2011 and want to say thank you for the honest, informative writing and the investigative reporting. I would not have had the full picture of what is going on in Scotland without your insights.
I’m hearing Eric Bibb playing “The whole world’s got the blues” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gsPyQWXAc0
John Pilger wrote this about Julian Assange and it describes you as well
“Freedom of the press now rests with the honourable few: the exceptions, the dissidents on the internet who belong to no club, who are neither rich nor laden with Pulitzers, but produce fine, disobedient, moral journalism
I hope that you will take a good rest and start writing and investigating later in the year. Given the darkness descending on the UK, we are going to need good samizdat on the internet.
Dreadful news for us but in one way I’m glad for you because your health is the most important thing and what more could you possibly do which would open people’s eyes to the lies, greed, hatred and corruption which have betrayed the independence movement?
If it’s any consolation, I feel you would soon have been shut down anyway using the SG’s shiny new Hate Crime legislation, so it’s better to go on your own terms.
Forget this shit-show now, sail away to a new life, and, as as old Marcus A. himself advised: “Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”
The last principled journalist in Scotland has left the building.
And God help us all.
Thank you Stu.
In the dying light of Scotland , you were ever a beacon of hope.
You are right. The fascists have taken over the SNP. The party and the members are not my kin. Sturgeon will retire in 2026 , without honour, and leaving a scorched earth in her wake.
There will not be a referendum delivered by the SNP.
What a tragedy.
I felt bad, very bad in 2014. This feels as bad. Utterly down.
Where do we go for the truth now ?
FFS
Will smile at every beer bottle I open with my wings opener.
Best of luck… enjoy the rest of your life!
A sobering and very sad read indeed ?
You gave lots in the Yes movement the nitty gritty truth of what was in front of us all. Many would have felt empowered by reading the thousands of posts over the years. I certainly did.
I can only say thanks. You certainly opened a good few folks eyes with your forensic analysis. You have lived and breathed the site for 10 years, watching, reading, listening to endless news reports on Independence so we didn’t have to. For that I, and many, will always be thankful.
All the best with future bear hunts and be assured there are lots of folk who will very much miss Wings and all it stands for.
Thanks
That’s the same conclusion I have come to.
Sadly, Scots are truly too stupid.
Present people excluded, obviously.
You have the sufficient number of neurons to understand what is happening.
But that average stupidity plays in my favour.
I come from a country, and especially a city, where everything is corrupt and hostile, and business is a shark infested backwater.
I know how to navigate both.
Back to the old ways.
Hey-ho.
Gutted. Totally understand your reasoning, but I’m going to hope you’ll make a comeback when the time is right. All the best.
Thanks Stu,
Hope all goes well for you in the future and thank you so much for all that’s past.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart Stuart, You were a pillar of fortitude in the dark world created by the Murrels, You will leave a gap in the ranks of the true believers of independence.
A multitude of supporters looked to you as the last word on truth in a country that under sturgeon that word lost its meaning.
My hope is that after a decent rest you will be back in the front line but whatever your decision, the independence movement owes you a debt of gratitude, thank you.
Respect Stu. You’ve done a great job here over the years and your political analysis is researched and logical.
I’d like to thank you particulary for your coverage of the toxic gender issue and standing up for women – that’s the mark of a fine man imo.
At least you don’t live here. I’ll be fucking off as soon as my kids are offski.
Enjoy your life.
Knew this was coming but it’s still hellish. One thing to add re the comments about your work. Peerless.
Oh and for fuck sake don’t go to Rio! Have you seen the state of the plague ridden place! However go somewhere when the time is right. Take my share of donations of >£500, add it other well wishers who agree. You’ve earned it.
Good night and good luck.
What a week. I have lurked since 2012, contributed every time I was invited to and witnessed the life changing effects your words and deeds have caused.
I can’t share your pain as I haven’t given anywhere near what you have. But I am still hurting. Yet, stupidly maybe, I am certain that, despite the Betrayer, we will get there. She is a fraud, but she’s our fraud and we will deal with her eventually.
Please come back in some form or other.
Completely understandable decision Stuart
I confess when I realised this is your valedictory post my first thought was ” aw fuck another beacon of light goes out , who’ll shine a light and tell the necessary truths now ? ”
I wish you the best on whatever road you take from here , your intelligence and integrity will ensure that road rises with you .
Thanks for everything brotherman .
Ach I’m genuinely gutted to hear this but not surprised
After all you’ve done for your readers you deserve to do as you please
Certainly any money I’ve sent or donated is to pay your wages so as far as I’m concerned you spend it as YOU see fit
We owe you a big debt of gratitude Rev, you tried to save Scotland and us, alas we were blindsided by Sturgeon the Betrayer.
Go and enjoy the rest of your life, you deserve it.
First and foremost, thank you Stu for everything you’ve done to inform and entertain us over the past ten years and good luck with whatever you decide to do next. I too think you should keep everything left in the pot – you’ve earned it!
Two final thoughts: we should never blame the voters but the people of Scotland have made a massive mistake by voting in the way they have. We’ve now got a government focused on all the wrong things, one which cannot be trusted to push for, let alone deliver independence. On top of that we’ve got a shepherdess in charge who’s incapable of leading the fight (and, what’s more, she knows it).
Tried posting from my phone. Clearly didn’t work. Just to say that I’m disappointed but understand. I’m going to keep faith with Alba, even if it’s digging trenches for the ultimate civil war. Take care mate and we’ll be hoping for your return, or maybe to buy you a few beers/ciders on one of the marches.
I wish you all the best in all that you do Stu.This will be a loss to many of us but you come first. Please take care
Thank you, Stuart. You’re Scotland’s finest and bravest journalist, a giant amongst pygmies. No-one apart from AS has done more the cause of Scotland’s freedom over the last decade. Wings was indeed beyond price and I’ll miss it more than I can say. Enjoy the next phase of your life.
Stu, thanks for everything. I too feel it is pointless to carry on and I’ve not had the problems you have. I sincerely hope that your friend is alright now and hope, somehow, the bastards who caused his troubles, and yours, get their comeuppance. I’m no great believer in karma though and imagine, like all the other vermin in the indy movement, they will get away with the shite they peddle and the poison they spew.
Maybe once they have their eyes opened they will see all you tried to do and realise what they have lost.
Good luck in your new venture and let’s hope that somehow, something comes along to change the direction of travel.
I’ll continue to check in for Chris’s toons – and – IMHO the money is yours to do with what you will.
Sturgeons day of shame… since the last one!
I’ve said previously the SNP needs a reset and restart. The party has turned into a personality cult, and when the main personality hits the political brick wall – which I believe will be this year – the rest will collapse.
The SNP has a single point of failure, something not tolerated in most industries. Some of the new MSPs are already turning out to be an embarrassment, and we are only in the first week. (Hint: “where’s the money?” and “Sprechen Sie Deutsch?”)
As for Wings, I’ve followed it for a few years, and it is one of only a handful I return to regularly. WGD is NOT one of them.
I appreciate the work that goes into the articles.
You will be back, Rev. And very soon. As in tomorrow. Why? Because you know that to give up now would, after all the years of effort you’ve put into fighting for Scotland, be golden effort down the drain and I know there’s no way in hell you’re going to give succour to anti-Scottish scum like liar Johnson and duplicitous Sturgeon.
Let’s face it, Rev, you’re addicted to the fight for our independence. Like the rest of us we’re demented drouths. We’re drunk on it and by fuck we’ll continue to fight for Scotland and we’ll win for Scotland.
Take a well-earned few days of rest and…
Nah, fuck it. Don’t take a few days. Log in the morn and let loose!
Remember the men and women who, over the centuries, have fought and died for Scotland.
Think today of Craig Murray.
We’ll argue. We’ll call each other every name under the sun. We’ll argue amongst ourselves because that’s what Scots do. We’re thrawn bastards. That’s why we’ll win.
See ye the morn.
Well I’m very disappointed…… but not surprised.
No-one else does what you do here and the whole Indy movement is poorer because of that.
Good fortune Stuart.
May the wind always be beneath your wings.
Thank you Rev Stu. You saw me through the bad days. Thank you again for the truth and haste ye back.
I for one will miss your input. The Wee Blue Book was excellent but have sadly since have misplaced, it certainly was inciteful.
All the best in the future whatever you do, take care of yourself.
Dougie.
Others have said it much more eloquently than me, but THANK YOU Stu from the bottom of my heart, and from other family members who are not registered on this site.
I’ve been following this site almost since it started, although didn’t register until after The Referendum. Was too busy campaigning. You provided so much to us then. I remember picking up van and car loads of Wee Blue Books and distributing them far and wide. Your research and delivery has been truly invaluable to the Movement.
At times like this, we often get maudlin and reminisce. So be it. I’ve downed pints with many giants of the Movement. Truly wish you and I had done.
Perhaps it’s now time for a younger generation to take the lead.
Take care of yourself Stu, guid fowk are scarce as my auld granny used to say.
See you on the other side.
Thank you Stu, you’ve been a great fighter for Scotland and a great educator.
I wish you the very best for the future.
IanB,
Have you plans for a wings get together anytime soon?
Stu,
Thanks for everything you did. Good luck with what you’re going to do.
The hardest reading, that column, but, as is nearly always the case, not any reasonable way to disagree with you.
Take care man, you fought the good fight.
P.S. An investigative journalist with your skills can certainly find me if there’s anything I can do for you.
100%Yes says:
Where can I go for the truth.
Saughton seems the place for truth right now
Thanks for everything you’ve done Stu.
Nobody can blame you for calling it quits. I can’t imagine what the abuse you receive must be like.
I must have read wings almost daily for the best part of a decade. Thousands of others must have done the same. Your name might not be included in official histories of the last decade in Scottish politics but few others have played as big a role.
If you decide to return in the future I’ll be delighted, but your health and wellbeing is more important.
Thanks again & good luck with whatever you decide to do
Thanks for all you have done Stuart. You have achieved a standard of investigative journalism unmatched in the current era of Scottish politics, without forsaking your own style and passions. I for one will miss you. Take care of yourself and again thank you.
People have said all that I’ve thought, and I’ve felt the loss of hope.
But what an example you have left. Others can be judged against it.
Thanks for everything Stuart.
I’ve read this site faithfully since 2013, although barely commented. It’s been my go to site for all things Indy, and for that its been a veritable goldmine of information. All the very best for the future, and go in peace.
I’ve only been here a few short months and although I have widely differing views( I’m a different sort of nationalist) to most on here and yourself Stu, I’ve found your site invaluable for facts and humour. Very sad to hear you are clocking out, hoping you will have a well earned break and come back from time to time, its draining the life out of you and that’s no good. Spend time with family & friends, get passed, take many photos of wildlife and enjoy the life you have. Thank you sincerely for your blood, sweat & tears.
Well, Stu, it was not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that you were fighting, but for freedom.
It’s been a pleasure reading your articles these last 7 years and I think its time also. Banging your head against a Brick walk when so called Indy supporters are trying to smash your head from the back took guts and intelligence. Enjoy your new endeavours and this will be 1 of the biggest losses to the Indy movement. Personally I wouldn’t vote for Indy under the SNP watch as these are not the people to take Scotland forward and unless a complete removal occurs they won’t get my vote. Thank you again for all your efforts and good health to you and yours
It is so sad.You are the voice of integrity and intelligence and the best political journalist around .
You will leave a gaping void but It is understandable that you have had enough.To be honest I and others were worried about your safety .
All I can say is Thankyou
As usual, spot on, clear and well surmised. It is time to leave the room (even for a while), but you turned the lights on before you left, and that’s one of the greatest gifts you have given amongst many. Thanks Stuart. With great respect
Garrion
You’ve certainly done your bit.
Clear skies.
Seems that dugs in this country can be rabid after all. Utterly shameful.
If it helps.
I had a 3 year relationship, and lots of fantastic sex, with someone who in the early days saw me commenting on here.
A valuable website. XX
You’ll be back
Good Luck in all you do. Live Well. God Bless.
If a referendum does get called, please come back. There is no way we can win one without you, especially not now that the largest “Yes” voice online is the shameless self promotion group for business for Scotland and Gordon M-Kemp “Believe In Scotland” a facebook group with censorship levels that would make the KGB blush.
You got to the bottom of unionist lies and myths, that was your greatest value. You’ll be sorely missed.
Gutted but not shocked. You’ve done well to last this long Stu, without losing your sanity, wading through all the daily shite and abuse. You deserve a long rest and holiday, even though it’ll have to be a staycation!
I discovered Wings maybe late 2012. I was forever reading your stuff out to my housebound Dad. He was quite adamant that he was voting No when the referendum was announced. After many months of hearing second hand your forensic journalism and of course reading your fantastic Wee Blue Book, he voted Yes. Sadly he passed away in 2018 and never got to see an independent Scotland. I’m now 50 and I’m starting to wonder if I’ll ever see it. I think we’re looking at the 2030s now, that’s if it ever happens at all. So why put yourself through more of the same shit? Totally understandable decision.
I’ll really miss Wings, it’s been a daily part of my life now for over right years. I’m glad the site will remain open as I still want to point a couple of folk towards it, folk who have no idea what is currently going on re GRA and freedom of speech. All the very best to you Stuart.
It took some time for Labour to implode but when it did it happened fast. I remember the early days of the Scots parliament, the numpty chamber as it was called dominated by the semi articulate Labour placemen from the rotten burghs. History will repeat itself it’s just that the Scottish electorate are a bit behind the curve. Politics is cyclical.Thing is Labour now beginning to get its act together and their candidate in Airdrie by election on Thursday looks credible, the sort I could identify with: local, left school from a working class background , engineering apprentice then worked himself up the ladder. Talking about local high tech jobs. Not the type who could get near a SNP selection committee and there in lies the problem.
Stu , this has made me so sad. Only today while searching for something I’d lost, I came across my Wee Blue Book and my notebook.
I will continue to wear my Wings badge with pride.
Thank you for all you have done and as others have said any money which is still in the Wings fund is yours , use it for R & R.
Now rather selfishly , I wonder where I will get news and information.
Take care and much thanks.
Just a wee note, Stu.
Alba needs a press officer.
😉
I am sat here in tears. Alba was our last glimmer of hope, and for me that died last week.
You have described my thoughts exactly. Sturgeon and her cult have killed everything I believed in politically.
They have destroyed all the positives and replaced them with negatives.
Ruined good people’s lives. Salmond, Murray, yourself.
Robbed us of our independence and ruined the hopes of the next generation.
The damage they have done is immeasurable, and how despicable are our SNP MPs and MSPs for not taking a stand (with a few honourable exceptions).
We have been totally let down.
You have been treated appallingly, as have Craig and Alex. We don’t want you to go, but none of us have the right to expect you to stay and take any more.
I will never forgive them.
Thank you for being a beacon of honesty. Your work will never be forgotten.
Like many others Wings has been my first read every day since I became one of your first followers. This is a sad day. There is simply no other source we can rely on for truth and integrity.
Since last week’s election I’ve been torn between exasperated resignation and rage at the people who destroyed the SNP. I feel like simply saying fuck ’em now.
I live in hope that truth will destroy Sturgeon’s clique sooner rather than later but the truth will be harder to come by without Wings.
Best wishes in whatever you do next, but please keep your options open. Your country still needs you.
What about a more observational/current affairs type commentary, instead of a campaigning role. Taking the piss is very therapeutic! Many thousands will miss you.
A Big Thank You, Rev Campbell. You put in an excellent shift and certainly ruffled a lot of feathers. We can expect no more of you. Your did your bit for Scotland. The dream shall never die, but it’s maybe someone else’s turn to keep it burning – a new dark age approaches but together we will get through. Enjoy your retirement and if you ever feel like rejoining the fight, you will be more than welcome. God Bless. 🙂
Last Saturday was even lower than September 19 2014, but at least we had the Rev.
I am sitting beside a man who has fought for Scottish independence his whole life, he’s brave, strong and intelligent,
and he is in bits at this news, as I am myself.
Following the results on Saturday, he turned t me and said,
‘That’s it, (It’s over.)’
I said, ‘What now?’
He replied, as he always has,
‘Lets see what the Rev says.’
And on top of it all, it would have been my late mother’s 94th birthday today.
‘
It’s been a gas man.
Really sorry to see you go.
Always my go to site for the news that mattered.
Fearless razor sharp analysis witty insightful and laugh out loud put-downs.
My wee world will be a duller place for sure.
As the sage said…the only thing that’s constant is change….and with that brings hope.
Good luck.
I’ve followed you since 2013. You have been the voice of truth ,honesty and integrity. Scotland owes you. There is no one who measures up to your courage, tenacity and analytical skills. I hope you will write a book, it will be a best seller. Most of all..I hope that Scotland develops a spine and you will be back to help. I will miss you.
The sigh of relief around Scottish Politics tonight is deafening.
Not wholly surprising, but still shocking….
Can’t say it is a surprise, and you’ve more than earned the right to call it quits at whatever stage you feel is most appropriate. The posts in particular at the height of the Fabiani inquiry were stunning journalism, only heightened by the fact that so few people even dared to go near it.
Any chance though we could call it a sabbatical, rather than the end? Whilst I agree totally with all your writing about why it’s not going to happen during this new parliament, Sturgeon has still, post-election, gone and promised enough that even if she doesn’t deliver on it there needs to be someone there with the clout to remind her of it, regularly.
But either way – goodbye and good luck
The flag of liberty has not fallen broken upon the ground.
Others will keep it flying until planted permanently upright in the earth, once and for all, to honour Scotland’s sovereignty and freedom and those who gave their time, career and ultimately lives to foster.
@ RevStu :
Best of luck working out where the pieces fit together now.
Its been an interesting road to travel with you over the years & I’m happy to have supported you along the way.
FWIW I’d prefer you send at least some of the residual funds to Craig Murray. I think he’s probably the most deserving cause at the moment – being politically prosecuted by one govt for the benefit of another probably trumps all our problems.
Take care & best of luck.
Bye Stu,
I’m gutted – been reading Wings almost since day one – but I understand. I’ll definitely miss this site. 🙁
I first met you on the Newsnet website. I remember thinking,who is this ecclesiastical gentleman disrupting the site with his high grade trolling.
You have earned the right to leave Stu. Always once red to you for your tireless work and efforts. The man churnalists cannot touch you . They don’t even come close to truth and honesty.
Gutted it has come to this but like yourself I am off to live my life. God knows I’ve got plenty to be getting on with. Sturgeon has kicked Independence into the long grass. It’s going to take years for the flock to wake up to that. They’ve been had.
Wings has been a beacon of light through the darkness. So sad to read this but it’s no big surprise either. Who can blame you in all honesty I see no hope or breakthrough in the short to medium term. It’s always like we are against a hurricane and now with the main Indy party putting the knockers on our independence it’s just surreal. Enjoy the rest of your life Stu. Life really is too short.
A truly herculean shift rev,thank you so much.
Sincere thanks Stu!
I remember donkeys ago on the beeb’s “Blether with Brian” as they were tightening it up, and as the tides were swelling in our favour (the tone police started arriving then too, alas), thinking to myself that someone *had* to start a site, a full time one, to put forward positions and challenge the opponents.
Boom! Wings Over Scotland!
An amazing, unique force for the independence movement while it moved forward, which a great many people will be as hugely grateful for as you should be hugely proud!
Now though, here’s to your happiness.
All I can say is don’t go.
Stuart, I’ve only commented a handful of times on the blog over the past (almost) decade. I’ve followed avidly since pretty much the start. I handed out your Wee Blue Book to all and sundry, when the Yes shops popped up. They were handing them out by the bucketload then. I still have my copy in my bookcase. You’ve been my go-to site for news, critique and political analysis almost daily. For me, there has been no analyst who has been as astute or as insightful and bang on the money as you have. Nor have I come across anyone with as quick a mind as you. It has always amazed me how quickly you can churn a piece out and be so spot-on at the same time. I have always been in awe of that. I don’t say this to blow your trumpet – these are simple facts. I’ve always thought that the anyone would be mad not to have you on their team as an adviser but they’ve been too cowardly to take you on because of the backlash they’d face. Too caustic for their sensibilities. Obviously it was never going to happen with Sturgeon anyway, but it is a loss to all of us and to our detriment that no one ever did. I knew this was coming as I felt you’d nowhere left to go, with the next 5 years being a repeat of the last. I am quite emotional that we’re no longer going to be reading your posts. You’ve done us proud. It’s been an honour and a pleasure to have you on our side, and you will be greatly missed. I wish you all the very best for the future and hope you enjoy your very well-earned retirement but I do hope we will hear from you in the not-too-distant future. So long, and thanks for all the fish.
When you’ve finished watching spiders in a cave down in Bath we’ll be waiting for your return. Thanks for everything.Your site traffic numbers indicate your abilities better than I could find words for.
I am feeling quite sad. Stu, if ever you find yourself on the island of Islay, and i bump into you. You will be offered the warmest hospitality of a nice family meal and a bed. Thank you for leading me to the truth.
We thought we were fighting in a nice little democratic battle for independence. We were. But the British State was fighting a dirty counter-insurgency war, and its got the SNP leadership and all the institutions of Scotland under its control.
Some day we will find out the truth, and the truth will set us free.
Bon voyage, Stuart Campbell. Glad I met you indeed, fine fellow.
And now is as good a time as any to say goodbye to everyone else. I wish you all well. Know that when Sturgeon and her gang of sewer rats unravel, and they will, I will be sitting watching and enjoying like you. And who knows, maybe our planets will align again some day.
There’s a world of better things out there to focus on.
Stu – take the money and run – you’ve earned it, people gave it freely. Que sera sera – enough indy victims already – take it easy. Be happy.
Fuk sake. Craig Murray facing 8 months and now this ?
On a separate point.
Stu, you have alluded a number of times to information you have regarding the Alex stitch up among other important items. If you cannot reveal is there somewhere a hero who can publish as and when required?
Thanks for everything.
All the best Stuart – you’ve certainly earned a break.
As an English, unionist conservative I’m not sure whether you’ll appreciate this comment, but (genuinely) please don’t stop.
I have always enjoyed the honesty, passion and clarity of your work. It really would be a sad day if you let the current tragi-comedy stop you doing what you’re so good at. We all would also be the poorer for it.
Good luck and I hope a short restorative break will bring you back sharper than ever.
I could wax lyrical about you and your importance. But you know this. I’m dreadfully, awfully sad. But I understand completely.
God, so sorry to hear this but I know it must just feel like pi$$ing in the wind these days. I don’t know when we will get independence but I will now be staying in Norway a lot longer than planned. Take care and keep looking for those bears.
Am raising a glass to you. I don’t feel defeated funnily enough. But I do think it’s the end of an era, and time for a change in tactics.
Hi Stu, this is only the second time that I’ve commented but I just want to say how much I’ve appreciated your site since I first came across it last year and while I’ll miss your investigative journalism very much I can understand why you’ve decided to move on. Scottish politics will be very much the poorer without your input but there’s no point in banging your head against a brick wall for the next five years.
The bad guys that make up the SNP leadership may think they’re riding high at the moment but truth will out and it’s my firm belief that they’ll get their comeuppance before too long, hopefully when Salmond gets to have his day in court and the whole rotten edifice comes crashing down about the Murrells’ ears. Until then, thanks for all your effort in shining a light on the cesspit that Sturgeon has created. If only the MSM had one fraction of your integrity such a situation would never have happened in the first place but there you go. I wish you all the best whatever you decide to do next.
Just be pleased that the obsession with Scottish independence didn’t lead to the beggaring of the Scottish people and their submission to foreign (yes, foreign) economic control by the EU.
Scotland’s future lies in being part of a United Kingdom.
Hopefully the Scottish government will now do their job and discharge their duties in the best interests of the Scottish people. Hopefully this obsession with ‘independence’ is now at an end. Swapping union with UK for union with the EU was always going to be a frying-pan to fire option.
So now we move on.
Oh Stu, I feel like I am losing a family member. Your site is the only one I trust for political news. I lurked for years before commenting coz I was a bit scared of your laser like ability to cut the BS. I feel bereft and will miss it. There is nothing else close to your site on offer in Scotland.
All the very best of luck to you and a million thanks and hugs for all you have done for all indy supporters to keep the dream of indy going. You will be sorely missed. You are a hero. God bless.
When I left the count on the 19th September I couldn’t believe that we’d lost. How the hell could you be willing to tell the world that you thought yourselves to shit to run your own country.
This site kept bringing me back to thinking we could not only win but be a success. Recently the gender, woke identity politics cult and the too male, pale and stale crap from the oh so progressive leaders of the yes movement has had me thinking that we had been lucky in 2014. These clowns would be running the country and I wouldn’t expect my sons to have much of a future in a country where males can only get support if they stick on some lippy and scream to get into the ladies.
Who knows 5 more years of this shite and maybe the people of Scotland will realise they’ve been had. Although when you consider how many chances they gave Labour I’ll not be holding my breath.
I’m ages with you rev and the male members of my family seldom see their 70s. I wish you all the best, the health of you and those around you is more important than helping shite bags that despise you get even more power.
Perhaps a gaming channel for the future, now that would be fun.
Have a rest then return. Alba’s problem was its late entry into the campaign. They have five years to build and Sturgeon will be gone by then.
Thanks Stuart for your invaluable info, myth-debunking and for getting us through the aftermath of 2014. I wish you good health and good fortune. Respect.
Same to you Hatuey , all the best ma man , and likewise to all the brilliant , funny , passionate , good decent people I feel I’ve met here despite never having physically met a single one – as far as I know .
We’ll come back together when – to quote Van …” When the healing has begun ”
Adios amigo/as . Yir aw as braw as fuck
Gutted at your news but understand your decision, given the betrayal of the Independence movement that is currently underway.
Wings has been a daily check in for me since I first discovered it years ago and you certainly always had our backs.
I definately agree with Ian Brotherhood, use the remaining funds to make up a Wings book of truths…… perhaps with all sales proceeds going to the Alba Party?
rev
i was expecting this after the toxic campaign against alba.
sturgeon pulled out all the stops to avoid facing up to AS in HR.
that was our last realistic chance for indy in my lifetime (63)
i wish you well in whatever you choose to do
whatever is left in the fund is yours to squander
i got a twitter ban last year for calling you a “guid cunt”
i stand by that statement
adios amigo
Very best of wishes to you and a well-earned rest. May you long continue to enjoy waterside walks and the company there of squirrels, and at home of your own office rats.
Best wishes to your friend.
Thank you, Stu, for sticking with the cause of Independence so long, spreading well-researched truth, and for sticking your head above the parapet already so much. I have taken to reading every one of your posts for some good while now, looking forward hungrily every day to the latest.
If it had not been for you, especially – and some of those other creditable bloggers you highlighted, chiefly Ian Murray – I would have been far less informed. I also therefore would likely have voted differently in this recent election:
(SNP/Green), rather than as I did vote,
Spoiled(&terse comments why)/Alba.
I’d hoped to see Alba do far better but schemers and the gullible conspired to hold the cause of Independence back.
Enjoy your rest and recreation. I wish you a congenial summer, fresh air and sun, happy social opportunities out of lockdown and an easy mind, for you have acted diligently and with humour.
Warm thanks always!
I have learned so much from your blog. You have shone a clear, limpid light on Scottish politics.
I left Scotland in 1968. Following our huge deception in 2014, I made plans to come back live in Scotland to do what I can to help prepare our country for the second attempt at independence, so near were we to achieving it.
Last year, I spent the month of January in Scotland to assess the situation. Since then, the betrayal meted out to AS has become the cold betrayal, decidedly bereft of any semblance of empathy of the whole Scots nation. The Sturgeon/Murrell nightmare has shocked us all.
Without your insight and forensic exposition of the truth and your immense courage, we would still be in a fog over the details. Your work has been crucial to history and to my understanding.
Thank you so very much.
Time for you to look forward and to move towards your future. Sadly for us and for Scotland.
Stu, to my regret we’ve never met. It’s been a huge privilege being a supporter, a fan and a contributor though.
You don’t owe anyone in the movement anything.
I understand why you’ve made this decision. There is only so much individuals can do.
I hope we do get to meet in happier times. Thanks for making the ride possible.
It’s been a blast! Go well, and may the road rise up to meet you.
Thanks for trying to make The world a better place. All the best for your future.
You have impacted the lives of many !
You will continue to impact those lives as we try to replace a significant time slot in our daily lives
Thank You !
T.roz says:
12 May, 2021 at 7:47 pm
I am feeling quite sad. Stu, if ever you find yourself on the island of Islay, and i bump into you. You will be offered the warmest hospitality of a nice family meal and a bed. Thank you for leading me to the truth.
—
Should he book a B&B just in case?
What are you having for tea?
‘Yer no’ awa’ tae bide awa’, fir yer no’ awa tae le’e us…….Ye’ll aye come back an’ see us”!
We need you, Rev. We need Alba. Scotland needs both!
Can you give a quarterly blog, half yearly?
Can I buy you a pint?
Understand you need tae ‘take tack’ o’yersel, but please return.
I raise a glass to your good health and thank you, to your indefatigable self!
Just dropped by because I heard the news and wanted to make sure it was true. I skipped down to the last line and couldn’t be more delighted. Your poisonous rhetoric actually *IS* that “period of darkness”. The independence movement will do fine without Wings’ divisive ramblings and its sycophant followers. This good news is almost on a par with last weekend’s election results. Cheerio, cheerio, cheerio (waves)
Thank you for every written word Stu! Learned so much from your blogs. Sadly disillusioned now regarding indy and like yourself will now get on with my life. SNP new motto is apparently…Scotland Free in 2053!
Gone right handed says:
12 May, 2021 at 8:04 pm
Just be pleased that the obsession with Scottish independence didn’t lead to the beggaring of the Scottish people and their submission to foreign (yes, foreign) economic control by the EU.
Scotland’s future lies in being part of a United Kingdom.
Swapping union with UK for union with the EU was always going to be a frying-pan to fire option.
So now we move on.
—
The most important bit is getting out of the frying pan you fucking lunatic.
Along with numerous others, I am gutted that you no longer wish to continue Wings but I understand that the time has come to put your health & happiness before others.
I hope you also realise what a gift you have in bringing people together with one purpose. It’s a tragedy that it is ending this way.I hope you find a new purpose wherever your journey takes you.
You will definitely be missed.
What can I say Rev?
Been an avid reader and commenter for the guts of 7 years.
I will miss your acerbic writing and fearless exposure of the truth, however uncomfortable it was at times.
As others have said this isn’t unexpected but still comes as a kick in the balls.
Now more than ever the sanitising power of light being shone into the dark corners of political and public life in Scotland is needed so I for one hope this is a sabbatical rather than retirement.
Any way Stu, thanks for everything you’ve done to advance Independence for Scotland in spite of the haters, jealous wannabes and the sheeple who believe the shit the MSM feed them daily.
I will miss your rage against the establishment machine!
I don’t have the words so I’ll rob Dylan Thomas’s:
Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieve it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
————————————————————————
Have no doubt now or ever Rev, your words definitely “forked a fuckload of lightning”
Hopefully I’ll get a chance to buy you a pint of some luminous sickly sweet alcoholic beverage as way of a small thank you if our paths ever cross.
It’s been emotional.
Like so many others, I am absolutely devastated. And that is not an exaggeration.There will be little point in reading the news any more without Mr Campbell to point out the lies, subterfuges and machinations. They have it all to themselves now. Alex Salmond fatally wounded by the continual lies, Craig Murray also fatally affected, and who will stand up for him now? Collectively Wings is a great fighting force. Individually we are voiceless.
Nevertheless I commend his tireless pursuit of truth and mourn the toll this has taken of him.
I am assuming that one can still contribute to the blog as long as it continues.
Thank you Mr Campbell
The past few weeks has been one hammer blow after another.
But it hurts more when you see it coming.
If we applaud loud enough, Rev, how about a long encore after your break?
“So now, less than five years later,
you can go up on a steep hill in Las Vegas, and look West, and with the right kind of eyes you can almost see the high-water mark – that place where the wave finally broke, and rolled back”
Hunter S Thompson,
‘Fear and Loathing’
If you were to substitute five years for ‘seven’ years and Las Vegas for ‘Arthur’s seat’ you’ll find the spot.
Stu, thank you for the facts, truth & integrity. You have shone a guiding light for the 9 & a bit years for the Movement. Your engaging style of communications has resulted in many ‘eureka’ moments & sparked the BTL folks into avenues that we never ever gave 2nd thoughts to, but on reflection, these insights all did have relevance to how ‘powers’ operated & require challenging constantly.
Hopefully there will be memoirs released at some point, skillfully written by you, with illustrations by Chris, rather than ghost-written wie crayons by the likes of Torrance/Mackay/Hutchinson/Colm/Daisly !
Guid health & guid luck in your chosen future ventures Stu
You couldn’t have tried harder Stu.
Write a book so we can all read it out loud to those who are destroying Scotland with their denial.
One day they will wish they had listened to you .
We can have a glimmer of hope that the situation in Scotland will change and you make a u -turn , in the meantime I hope you find something rewarding to do to fill your days .
Huge Thanks !
Giesabreck… it was actually oath to a raven who called stu, our wallace of words.
I cant take credit for that, but stu certainly is a giant of Scotlands political writers.
FUCK YOU!!! Greg Drysdale, you’re so fuckin thick that you don’t even see what’s coming, so fuck right off, and when you get there fuck off some more you cretin.
I hope Stu will continue but concentrate on producing occasional pieces of long-read investigative journalism, at which he has often been unparalleled in Scotland. You’ve been wasting your talents kicking against the pricks, yes it makes for spicy takes and builds an audience, but it leads to spreading yourself too thin. The New SNP are not going to be de-programmed any more than Trump or Brexit voters were or indeed for that matter, the fools who worship Joe Biden like a Sun God, are. This is the new style in politics – cult vs cult, and Alba was merely a compelling political party, not a compelling cult. But biding one’s time is not the same thing as switching off.
I don’t know what to say, Stuart. I’m not really good at putting what I want to say, into words. So I’m just going to say I’m totally devastated. I think I knew it was coming but I so fervently ignored my feelings because I treasured having a place to come to read the truth of what’s happening in Scotland & elsewhere. I could deal with all the garbage of the political world b/c there was someone prepared to write the truth, and publish it in spite of anything anyone else tried to push. So many others have been scared of the truth, intimidated by your light on it, called you for everything for knowing what they didn’t want you to know & for exposing it. And now… I feel they’ve won.
But I know they haven’t won. You’ve never let them get away with garbage & aren’t now. You’ve decided to have a life that doesn’t include their dark, dirty little secrets and their hatred of your analysis of their doings. I understand that and I’d want the same if I had had to wade through the shit you have had to, to keep us informed. You’re entitled now to step out of it and leave their nasty world behind.
Particularly when it means you don’t have to watch your back – or your friends’ backs! I am absolutely sickened and disgusted at what your friend has had happen to them, through the need to harm YOU. I’m HORRIFIED – but not surprised. It doesn’t surprise me that your enemies would go to such lengths to try to hurt YOU & stop you in your tracks. You’ve been the immovable object they couldn’t control & the irresistible force they couldn’t stop. So they attacked your friend. But I’m so sorry your friend has been the recipient of such dangerous hatred. I wish your friend a good & speedy recovery.
I can’t tell you how much I will miss my first port of call every morning – My Inbox to see/read the latest Wings article. So I’m going to wish with everything I’ve got that November sees changes that allow you to decide to get back in harness, strap yourself to your keyboard, and hammer out more blows to the enemy’s head.
I have to say I can’t see anything changing in Scotland in the next little while. NOTHING gives me hope you’ll find it worthwhile keeping the site open. So – if this turns out to be more than just an extended holiday for you, I can only hope that you find something to do that just makes you happy. You more than earned it – and you more than deserve that. Take care – and ‘call home‘ once in awhile, just so we know you’re alive & well and happy.
Thanks for everything you’ve done for other people, Stuart. I have nothing but respect for what you have done, and how hard you have tried to change things for Scotland. Scotland – we, owe you a big debt. Now go be happy.
Sorry to hear this obviously, but fully understand. We had a chance which the SNP leadership has flunked. I also doubt I’ll see independence, (I’m in my last 60s). The SNP has:
a) been taken over by ex-Labour identity political students;
b) Infiltrated by UK-SS;
c) A compromised leader/cabal which UK-SS are exploiting;
d) Succumbed to “Big fish, Small pond” syndrome;
e) all of the above.
Whatever it is, nothing will change with regards to putting us in a position town Independence any time soon and in the meantime Westminster can simple alter the Scotland Act making ANY independence referendum ILLEGAL a la Madrid.
Stu warned us, and the Cabal with MSM support made sure that message got strangled.
Thanks Stuart for the last ten years. You are (were) my first stop every day for news and information and your incisive and detailed analysis will be a huge loss to Scotland going forward.
Take it easy and find something nice to do.
Derick fae Yell says:
12 May, 2021 at 7:25 pm
If it helps.
———-
Helps, naw. Noo am jealous Derek.
Nae such luck here and all i have is my faithful “pamela” to keep me company the past 2 years sitting locked up in the hoose. Maybe things will change soon when the Ayatolla Sturgeon lets us oot to play for the what’s left of our lives in this woke hell we’re facing.
Hi Stu, sad news but you have put in a long shift. You can hold your head high and reflect on the tens and hundreds of thousands of Alert readers you have created. Without you we would not have been as alert and my, and I’m sure others, sincere thanks to you.
Take your time off and enjoy the summer whenever or wherever you go.
I might get more done now though if I’m not on Wings… silver linings etc. 😉
I think we’ve got time for one last conspiracy theory. How do we know that ALBA only got 44,000 votes? There was no exit poll, just like in 2014, and the result wasn’t released until Saturday. From what I read and heard, the polling stations were very busy for most of the day on Thursday.
I have always felt that we won in 2014. Is this history repeating itself? Remember, we are dealing with experts in the art of deceit. It’s what they do.
So much to say, but not enough space to say it.
Suffice to say, if I’m ever in Bath and see you in a bar, please permit me to buy you a pint.
Thank you Stu – Lang may yer lum reek!
THANK YOU.
I think I’m more depressed about this than AS failing to get back into Holyrood.
I think others can step up with your character and heart, but I doubt any will quite equal your intelligence, forensic attention to detail, sheer hard work, or your cutting wit.
But, whilst a hundred of us remain alive…the dream will NEVER die.
Damn! I’ve just got it![Been on the piss] You’ve just walked out of the Westminster cesspit, Rev. Kudos to you.
Stu, just thought – we need you in the GRA fight – how about launching Wings over TRANSylvania? You could have a joint venture with Glinner, Mr Menno and James Dreyfus.
…it may take a hundred of us to replace you!
Let’s get started!
Thank You Stuart.
Thank you, Rev Stu, for all you and Wings have done for the cause of Scottish independence. Educate, expose, rally, lately even warn.
The end of Wings will be a tragic loss to the independence movement, but you’re only human and I can see where you’re coming from.
You can lead a horse to the water but you can’t make it drink. It gets frustrating after years of doing the same thing over and over again.
Last Sunday, Mother’s Day in my country, my family gathered – mostly outdoors and socially distanced – at my parents’ place in the country. They all know of my interest in Scotland and Scottish independence, and were keen to discuss the election results with me. The media in my country has portrayed it as Sturgeon’s fight for Scottish independence, and now she and the Greens won an independence majority, so Scottish independence is imminent, right?
Oh boy! I had so much to say!
My first comment was that nothing’s changed. The SNP is the largest party but without an outright majority, so it’ll be same as 2016-2021. Especially because the leadership of the SNP and the Greens are lukewarm on independence and in no hurry. Also, Boris Johnson had already said NO to a new indyref the morning after the results started coming in, and the SNP don’t seem to have a plan B.
I also had to explain the Holyrood election system, and how most voters don’t understand it – a situation confused by using three different systems for three different level elections: UK Parliament, Scottish Parliament and Local Council.
All of my family, even the teenagers, seemed to understand the system when I explained it – also saw the “flaw” and how to exploit it, i.e. get percentually more indy-supporting MSPs than there are indy supporters by voting SNP1 and Alba2, or Green2 as it turned out. It’s not a fair proportional representation system, but hey, you work with what you’ve got!
I then mentioned Sturgeon’s Stalinistic tendencies, political witch-hunts and smear campaigns against perceived political rivals – anybody who doesn’t toe the line and agree 100% with the “Great Leader” – oh, yeah, I also mentioned this Northkoreanesque personality cult that’s been built around “Chief Mammy” Sturgeon.
My family were quite surprised to hear all this, Scottish politics doesn’t register in the news here except during election time, and even then the media here mostly regurgitate BBC stuff.
Many Finns are quetly, vaguely supportive of Scottish independence. They don’t know much. They like the idea of independent Scotland gearing towards a more Nordic-type society, noises some Scottish politicians have been making.
Now that Wings is going to stop blogging, where will I get my well-researched and -sourced info on Scotland? I’ve followed a couple of other blogs but none of them have quite the scope of Wings.
(Add to that that Craig Murray has been effectively silenced by the Sturgeon and UK establishment regime… Dark days, indeed.)
It was only a matter of time…. it would have been err banned, on the run.
Hi Stu, I am about the same age as you. I did everything I could in 2014 but it didn’t happen. Sturgeon is a fraud and so is her many cronies who walk around in the sturgeon bubble. You can’t defeat this cult.
My advise would be to find some line of work which is none confrontational and part time. Buy an ebike (best thing I have ever owned) and enjoy the next 10 years.
Nobody did more than you regarding trying to secure Scotland’s freedom. Take a bow sir and be happy moving forward.
Stuart, please consider a last hurrah of a fundraiser, let’s call it your retirement lift, I can think of nothing better to show the Sturgeon rabble how much we love you, and we do.
I came here at the behest of Betty Boop in 2014 and have read your posts daily, like everyone else I’ll be bereft, but your enduring legacy to all of us is the ability to see through the garbage we are served up by media and government alike, we are all equipped now with forensic analysis skills, so have no excuse to be taken in by the bastards
Take care and have a great life!
So does that mean it`s okay to post some Gaelic poetry 🙂
Greg Drysdale says:
12 May, 2021 at 8:13 pm
Aye, guid luck wi that. Come back in five years so we can say “We told you so” You’ll probably have even fewer balls then than you do now.
I’m saddened to hear this but honestly not all that surprised. It doesn’t matter how well you write there are only so many ways you can say Sturgeon is a fraud before driving yourself mad.
Best of luck in whatever you decide to do next and I hope it’s a bit cheerier than documenting the betrayal of the yes movement and the years of effectively unopposed Tory government we have ahead of us.
Big fan of Wings’ early albums and bought them all, later work left me a bit confused but everyone evolves and develops.
While pessimists might be right regarding the possibility of another gig, it could still happen. If it does there will be room on the stage for a good percussionist, especially one that can wield hammers.
Many an artist surprises with later work that is different but nonetheless pure gold.
The future is yet to be made.
Stuart, I respect utterly where you are coming from. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you’ve done for Scotland & what you’ve done for my understanding of the dire state of politics here. I cannot fault your reasoning at all & I will mourn the disappearance of this blog which I’ve read over these past 10 years. But I think you are doing the right thing by yourself even if it is the Yes movement’s momentous loss to lose your blog. I too have had to give up doing something truly useful that I was very good at in order to preserve my life & sanity & it was the best decision of my life. I wish you all the very, very best, Rev, & thank you again. Hugh
Hi stu, just so as you know, you kept me alive all that time. Absolutely. That was some shift. Epic, that’s what it was, Epic. Out of this world.
Bummer Stu.
Regarding disposal of funds I hear exotically-flavoured gins are a good investment.
Stuart, I regret that you are so discouraged and that you are putting Wings on the back burner. I too have been discouraged with the election results. I’m no longer living in Scotland, but still love the country. I’m 72 and now don’t expect to see Scottish independence before I die. I’ve unsubscribed from all the pro-indy blogs to which I had subscribed. I’ve also decided to not renew my subscription to The National when the times comes to renew. I was going to keep in touch with things through Wings because I know I’ll read the truth here. So, fareweel tae a free Scotland! I would not want to live in the totalitarian 1984 state it’s becoming. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js7x3u2GHYs&t=5s
Is it April 1st 2022 already ?
It is always the betrayers within that cause the ultimate defeat of the most just or even of the most powerful.
And it is might not right which always wins in the end in a selfish and dishonest society.
Scotland has become the most politically corrupt country in the world.
All the organs of state have been criminalised beyond redemption.
There is no way Scotland could not have become independent following the Brexit referendum result.
But it was Scotland’s fate to be at that time under the rule of the most evil woman who has ever lived in Scotland.
The Rev. Stuart Campbell’s enormous sincere efforts for the cause of independence will not be forgotten by genuine independence supporters.
But history is written by the victors.
Wings Over Scotland has ultimately become a victim of its own success.
Just like the SNP, it was totally hijacked by the SNP apologists especially in the lead up to the election.
There were the obvious unionist trolls, but genuine independence supporters like myself who warned against the SNP and especially against Sturgeon being back in power were hounded while the Rev. remained silent and allowed the SNP apologists to have a free reign.
How can it be reconciled that the pro ALBA Wings had 19,000,000 page views but ALBA ended up getting just 43,000 votes?
Rev. Stuart Campbell, if you do read this comment, I wish you the best.
I believe you have made some mistakes but you have always been very honest with your views.
And I greatly admire you as the one person who was not afraid to expose the lies and crimes of the most powerful.
Keep Wings alive, move to somewhere well beyond Scotland’s juridiction and expose the whole truth about Sturgeon and her fellow criminals.
Thank you.
Like everyone else of a truly Independent nature, Rev, I am truly gutted that your magnificent efforts over the years have reached this point.
No one will blame you, as what you say is 100% correct – as always – but you will be a great loss to what remains of the REAL Independence movement (naturally this includes not a single one of the gullible fannies who voted ‘SNP2’)
Barring an extremely unlikely mass defection, from SNP to ALBA, of MSPs and MPs who consider the future of their Country, their fellow citizens and their moral compass, to be more important to them than their personal pensions? Then the dream of Indy awaits only Alex Salmond reaching a similar conclusion to yourself, before it’s ‘Lights Out’ forever, on the movement.
A sad day indeed.
Hear hear to poster above , one more fundraiser , send the Rev out with a buck or two
But still please come back
Mauritius is lovely ,and I don’t mind helping to fund a wee jolly
Sad but not unexpected that this situation has come to be as we have watched events play out over the last 3 or 4 years.
Thank you so much for the phenomenal almost decade long shift you have put in providing Wings on various platforms, as the admin of FB and twitter (before your silencing) would also increase your workload and grief over and above maintaining just this site.
Your efforts not only directly informed and enlightened us to so many aspects, but also facilitated extensive btl commentary and input from a broad range of folk over the years. This added further dimensions to Wings as it allowed so many folk to add their own knowledge, but also created healthy robust debate amongst us all, which is an essential skillset requirement for activists to develop the confidence to interact with wider society when campaigning.
Since the material change in circumstance kicked in with the result of the EU referendum, this re-ignited the quest to return Scotland to being an independent country in control of its own destiny.
But unfortunately due to piss poor political and tactical leadership, the massive efforts and the momentum built by so many committed Indy activists that volunteered to step up has been squandered.
The sustainability of all that effort and commitment to finance, set up, and run various YES marches/ groups / shops / hubs must now be in question if there will be no imminent move to Indy.
The physical and mental efforts so many put in can be stressful and does take its toll though, and sensible management of our health and wellbeing should not be overlooked or ignored.
Take and enjoy a well earned break to recuperate and re-access life priorities… but just remember stuff often used to happen whenever you nipped out on bear patrol… So keep the rats away from your cables just in case the need arises to re-engage. 😉
Just as I was trying to think of something profound. What comes on the telly!
Non, je ne regrette rien. Probably a song most of us would use to describe the Wings decade.
My heart just sank reading that.
We are so short on credibility these days that this site shon like a beacon of light through the dark.
thank you stuart, for everything. I doubt you could ever know how much of an effect you’ve had on so many people.I will never forget you and what you did for our country. From the very pit of my soul, Thank you for everything. I will miss you so much.
I dont know what else to say man….
Stu, this site has been my goto for almost 10 years.
I’ve been trying to remember how I first came across WoS, it might have been ‘The Rangers’ demise stories, but from there on in the fact based content hooked me.
Thanks for the crazy hours you’ve put in.
I lost my WoS hat, but still have my brolly so will continue to advertise for you.
Being WoS’s ‘Man on scene’ for the Midlothin count in 2014 is somthing I’ll never forget, for many good and bad reasons, but you take care of yourself and find somthing to do that fills you with joy.
At least I’ll be able to track you twitter, I’ll just look for the sweary man… oh, wait.
I am only surprised you didn’t throw in the towel sooner tbh, the amount of bile and hatred you had to endure was off the scale, and the people of Scotland and will be all the poorer for your absence. Many thanks for all you’ve done, we’re only up at 45% because of you and Mr Salmond, I firmly believe that.
It’s gonna get a while lot worse before it gets better though. I actually fear for an SNP vision of an indy Scotland and that can’t be good.
Enjoy the bear hunting and swans.
Best of luck with all your future plans Stuart and thank you for giving your all to try and achieve independence for Scotland.
I will continue to pass on the facts I’ve learned from reading WOS to anyone who’ll listen 🙂
It’s been a fascinating ride. So pleased I discovered this site in 2013.
Will miss you big time Mr Campbell x
“How do we know that ALBA only got 44,000 votes?”
We don’t. In the same way we don’t know if the deception of SNP1+SNP2 and the media blackout were tools to stop people voting for Alba or excuses to present a deliberate underrepresentation of ALBA in the list vote as credible.
There is only one way to know if we have been robbed of the election, and that is with a post election survey by a reputable source (ALBA itself).
I can only say Stu thanks for the memories I have disagreed with you on a few things particularly about all Rangers supporters being knuckle draggers some are good friends are Independence supporters not necessarily SNP but Independence supporters
I guess it will be party time on the doging site I wonder what they will discuss when there is no one from Bath the sneer at and no news because they aint going to get any on the doging site all thats on offer there is either a begging bowl or snide remarks from the well past it person who milks his adoring audience like the MUGS they are.
AYE SNP 1 & 2 was a fkn masterstroke eh worked fkn wonders
Again all the the best Stewart Campbell you will be missed
Forgot to ask
Are the hammers retiring too?
Before you sign off completely Rev, how about a list of recommended alternative indy blogs for your vast readership to turn to?
Eg. Barhead Boy? Yours For Scotland? etc etc.
It would certainly give them a well deserved boost. One final gift before ye bow out. 🙂
Cheers, Stu, thanks for all your hard work, much appreciated.
Factual articles with links to back up the facts. Sad reflection of C21st Scotland that that won’t catch on.
I think there’s less chance of Scottish Independence now than there was in 2014. Queen Nic is the ultimate triumph of devolution. Devolution has been very good financially for Mr and Mrs Murrell so why would they want independence?
You’ve been inspiring and I wish you all the best.
Enjoy a break, recharge your batteries, and hopefully we’ll see you you back in the future.
Gone but never forgotten.
Good Luck and may the force be with you.
Rev Stu, sorry to hear this although understand completely. Thanks for the ride, education, verifiable facts, debate, laughter and new friendships through all the meet ups. May you enjoy whatever you do next. Next time we meet the drinks are on me!
Lanarkist
I’ll just repeat what i said a couple of days ago…
The day democracy, justice and hope died in Scotland.
I’ve spent the last 35 years of my life devoted to the cause of independence only to see it usurped, bastardised and destroyed by a corrupt, criminal and conspiratorial cabal of cunts facilitated by a complacent, coerced and cowered electorate who are as child like in the capacity to comprehend as they are in the ease to which they have chosen to be deceived.
To many morons content to simply glory seek by belonging to the ‘winning’ side.
Voting SNP has simply become a habit to these idiots just as labour was in the past.
The greatest misconception of the last 10 years was this notion that the Scottish electorate was the most switched on and politically astute of any nation ever…
Bawhawhawhawhawwww!!!
My greatest regret is that for a time i actually believed that pish!
I’m going to take an extended break from all this and devote all my time and energy just to my wife, kids, family and friends.
There’s only so much one man can take and i have reached my limit.
Best of luck… we’re going to need it.
Didn’t always agree with you but you put a shift in.
Take it easy.
The media certainly didn’t like it up em
After losing the referendum, I thought we needed to fight on. Then when SNP numbers soared, I took heart, the fight was on again. I was an SNP member.
I went to the Hydro, and cheered on Nicola Sturgeon when she took over the SNP. I thought, it won’t be long before Scotland would have independence. But none of us realised that Nicola Sturgeon is no friend of independence, or for that matter, Scotland. She works for a different country. Don’t let the Scottish accent fool you.
Gifted with an immensely strong party with loads of support, she has turned it into a bitter nasty wee clique. You could say, she modelled it in her own image.
The money markets were all reporting the pound strengthening today, as post election the threat of Scottish indepedence seems to be fading, with the FM signalling it isn’t going to happen within the next few years. The money men know the truth.
Scotland is right now in a very bad place. It is akin to a dictatorship. Nicola Sturgeon does seem to be working hand in hand with London, with a crown office, merrily PERSECUTING those who disagree with Nicola.
Then there was Alex Salmond. What she has done to him is beyond disgraceful. Lower than a snake. Yet within the last few days we have witnessed at least one of the alphabet women, literally gloating over what is happening.
Nicola and her corrupt wicked cabal, ARE the enemy within. They do not serve the electorate, the do not serve Scotland, they serve LONDON. All the rest is a clever charade. They take us for fools. All those folk who voted SNP 1 and 2, where is your indyref? When is your indyref? It doesn’t exist, exactly as REV STU and others warned. Kicked into the long grass until the next election. More fool you.
In the past, I’d have tried to persuade REV STU to continue, but this time, well, I think he might be right.
London could never have done all of this to Scotland without its ever eager helpers, those who seek career or baubles and a pat on the back, rather than to stand up for Scotland. Right now it feels like Scotland is chock full of spooks. In the media, in the crown office, and yes within the upper levels of the SNP and the leadership itself.
I am glad I spoiled my first ballot paper last week, and voted ALBA on the second. Glad I didn’t vote for the SNP that is actively working against Scotland. Every word Nicola says is probably a lie, and she has just been re-elected.
Who knows what might happen by November, but honestly, I think REV stu has a point. Although if he chooses to start up again, I’ll happily contribute to the crowdfunder. I’ve still got my wings coin for when things get really bad.
Poor Scotland. Poor, poor Scotland, shackled to an evil, greedy, bast*rd nation, whose abuse of our country is enabled by its treacherous ‘helpers’ within.
Is there an honourable man left in Scotland? Aye, and his name is Alex Salmond. He will always have my support. A king among men. While he continues, maybe, just maybe their is hope.
Nobody said it would be easy, it’s just that they never said it would be so hard.
@Breastplate (7.14) –
Re a Friends of Wings gathering, nothing is in the pipeline for obvious reasons, but if we do get something sorted we will find you!
(Do you do Twitter? I’m on there with my real name. Others will surely be on the Facebook or whatever.)
There is no one I would trust more than you to do good with the fighting fund.
Go away, come back and allow us all one more time to say thank you.
Let us do a fundraiser, but this time from us to you. You know it will piss all the right people off. Let us enjoy their outrage one one time. Most of all, let us enjoy doing this. It’ll be fun.
You are a legend of honesty and integrity. Enjoy the new choices you make.
Very sad to learn of this but not that surprised. Thanks so much for all you’ve done. You certainly opened my eyes to what has been going on and confirmed my gut instinct that things were very wrong.
I had hoped Alba would be a catalyst but it was not to be, or not yet. I cannot give up hope but it’s very hard to keep that spark from dying. I hope you can enjoy a more normal life without the abuse and find a fulfilling cause to promote. So many of us will miss you. You will always have a place in the hearts of Scots who believe in Freedom.
Thanks for all you have done Rev, it will never be forgotten.
Is there any way the site could be archived?? I think its entire output, is so important, it will in many years be seen as a very significant part of modern Scottish history. It is all there, all the facts, all the events, all the people.
We should not let it just go.
Just listening to James ‘We’re Going to Miss You When You’re Gone’.
A most honourable valedictory article. Well done son.
I was going to suggest a final fundraiser specifically for Rio (or various jaunts to UEFA Conference League locations) but I see a couple of others beat me to it.
Can you imagine the frothing of the yoons (including the devolutionist wing)?
I know it’s awfully soon, but do you think you will continue your long career in journalism (‘evening Mr Leask)?
Getting a “Your comment is awaiting moderation” at 8:17pm and 9:06pm Rev.
Unsure what filter I’ve triggered as can’t see any obvious ones (unless it’s the poetry)?
Any chance you can release the 9:06pm one please?
A friend directed me to this site eight years ago, everyday on coming home from work it’s been my first port of call,but my loss is nothing compared to the loss to the Indy cause.
Best wishes for the future wherever it takes you !
Will ye no come back again ?
I’ve been following this site pretty much from the get go and it has been well worth the contributions to the various fundraisers over the years.
I can’t believe it has been 10 years. Fk sake. Where does that time go? I was living in Aberdeen 10 years ago and helping chap doors for the SNP in Aberdeen South for Maureen Watt!
I feel exactly the same as you do with regards to the SNP and their betrayal. My local MSP (Kirkcaldy)is already in the Fife Free Press saying there’ll no be a referendum until Covid pandemic settles down. I’m annoyed at myself for voting for him now. Needless to say I won’t be giving it again.
Scunnered pretty much sums up how I feel about Scotland and its politics at the moment.
It is very sad that Wings will be no more.
Thank you for your peerless efforts for Scottish independence.
Selfishly, I hope you will feel differently after a break and come back and keep on keeping on but I wish you all the best with your future whatever that may be.
All the best, Rev.
It’s time Salmond’s lawyers leak every single text message.
The mountain of evidence.
Using Parliamentary privelege in Westminster.
Or on a foreign website. What’s happened to truth and justice with Craig Murray’s sentencing is absolutely sickening.
Publish the full conspiracy on a foreign website. Bring this heinous corrupt SNP Goverment to its knees.
I will never trust Nicola Sturgeon, and the truth has now died today with Campbell being forced offline.
Independence is finished.
Alba will need to pick up the baton.
All of us will.
Well, Rev, I think you’re right that this constant disappointment and anger does nothing for your health, mental and/or physical, and I cannot blame you for wanting to give it all a rest. I think you are wrong, though, about the international community approach and about everything being a waste of time, although I take on board the debacle that was the Catalan election aftermath.
I have a strong feeling that a crossroads has been reached in Scotland, although it certainly does not appear to be the case right now. Talking to someone the other day who had voted SNP 1 and 2 and has seen the light. The FM’s days are numbered, again though, it doesn’t appear to be the case right now. Often, the thing that sparks off everything goes off when your back is turned and are least expecting it. Sometimes, you just have to leave things to percolate first. Things are going to be very different soon. Maybe I am insane as you suggest. Maybe not.
Anyway, best wishes and thank you. Au Revoir.
Be proud of what you accomplished, Stuart. Go with the gratitude and best wishes of all us readers, and enjoy your time.
As a community we need to figure out a sensible way to archive all this work, and to stay connected.
(Publish a book o yir collected works and I for one would buy several copies, just sayin’)
Raising a glass to Wings Over Scotland tonight.
I read this earlier, but didn’t have the heart to reply. Rev, you are an investigative journalist par excellence, and your work is going to be missed no end. However, without a hefty legal department behind you, the risks multiply all the time. After what happened to Mark and Craig, you must have a metaphorical target on your back. That won’t go away because you stop writing, though – the bastards will not forget you, and they are good at playing a long game, as Alex will tell you. You will always need to watch your back – such is the price of telling truth to power.
My inbox is going to be much less interesting without you.
Oh, and @Gone right handed and @Greg Dysdale: fuck off both of you.
@Billy Russell (9.05) –
I like your thinking sah!
If Rev sticks that dosh in a modest Post Office-style account and everyone can see how much is there, just leave it for when circumstances change. ‘Cause nothing is surer – something will happen, and it may be five years down the line, but it could be a lot sooner, and look how fast the years go!
And besides, wouldn’t it be a proper stick to prod the SNP1&2ers with, that Wings has more in the bank than the SNP and is always there, hovering in the background, fully-funded and ready to storm back with “WBB: The Reckoning”?!
A final fundraiser for Stu personally? I’m sure that would be a popular choice, if the beautiful, heartfelt tributes appearing here are anything to go by.
😉
I only stepped away for a day & came back to this news. Sorry to see you go Stu but I completely understand. A man can only take so much. Your valiant efforts will be remembered in the history books once Scotland is an independent country. The NEW SNP will also go down in history, but for very different reasons.
All the best Stu. See you on the other side.
I think the Rev should take any remaining money from his fundraisers and invest them in Dogecoin. At least he’ll have made a decision about currency which is more than the SNP have done throughout their existence.
“The independence movement will do fine without Wings’”
Wings IS part of the independence movement, you blubbering idiot. It has been pretty much the only engine of the yes movement since 2015 because the political fraud in control of the SnP has been deliberately switching off all the rest, such is her allergy for the truth and for independence.
Wings’ editor has brought to us what Sturgeon has been abusing power and corrupting the structures of justice relentlessly to stop for the 6 years:
THE TRUTH.
Go back to the SNP rotting carcass where you come from. A carcass whose rotting juices are now polluting the yes movement. Go back to your leader, a leader whose only leading under her belt is that of driving the party, our rights, our parliament and our justice system to the ground so she can stop independence.
Go back to your leader, an individual who has such lack of principles and ethics that demands from SnP voters to waste their votes so she can have unionists in Holyrood denying Scotland its right to self determination without having to be this coward who actually spells it.
We will all still be standing in the same place, looking at your tears and listening to your whines when you come back with your tail between your legs saying the political fraud betrayed you and destroyed your party.
At that time we can all shout back at you:
Who is laughing now?
Now go on and enjoy the ill gotten gains from your ill advised choices for as long as they last and leave us to mourn our loss alone.
So sad to see you giving up, but so grateful for your tremendous work, and work-rate, and attention to detail. “Thankyou for everything” doesn’t cover it.
And so Scotland moves on to become a successful part of a successful United Kingdom whole.
Now all we need is for the Scottish government to sign up to that.
And for a minority of the Scottish people to face reality. That Scotland will prosper in the Union.
Enjoy feeding the ducks and your walks around Bath Stu. You’ve worked like fuck for the cause and you deserve all the luck in the world going forward in whatever you decide to do. Wings is the site that I tend to visit everyday to see your incisive and forensic skewering of the excuse for a free press we have and the lamest collection of politicians imaginable. I’ll miss it immensely.
Too gutted to comment.
But not gutted enough.
Thank you Sir.
Thanks Stu and all the best for the future neebs you have done us proud.
Safe travels matey
“That Scotland will prosper in the Union”
Your premise is flawed. For Scotland to prosper “in the union”, there HAS TO BE A UNION FIRST.
The UK union was killed on 29 March 2017, the day England representatives triggered A50 without the consent of Scotland, England’s equal partner in an international union. That day, England forced over Scotland its own will, its own interpretation of the treaty of union and in doing so, destroyed what was left of the union.
So no. Scotland can no longer prosper “in the union” because the greed of England’s mandarins strangled that union to ensure England could continue siphoning Scotland’s resources until Scotland is bled dry so England can survive its own political folly.
I have suspected you would make this decision but it’s still hard to believe now you have confirmed it. Wings has been a daily fixture for me for over 8yrs, a valuable source of information, facts and truth. Thanks for all you have done Stu, you were a rock standing against the flow of falsehood and a true son of Scotland. I wish you all the best for the future.
I feel happy / sad.
Glad you’re getting out and looking after yourself, but I’ll miss you.
So long, and thanks for all the fish. x
https://grumpyscottishman.wordpress.com/2021/05/12/thank-you-stuart-campbell/amp/?__twitter_impression=true
Sad news but not unexpected. All those comments above are tributes to what you have meant to so many of us for all those years. Your acumen and analysis has buoyed us up through all those years.
I’m a glass-half-empty kind of person but knowing that there was this site to come to, that kept shining a forensic searchlight on the shadowy world of Scottish politics, was a necessary corrective to complete despondency especially when others had deserted what had seemed a worthy cause to betray it.
It is also a sad truth shown again and again in human history that the good cause does not always win. Scotland’s future under the present regime and its corrupt enablers looks gloomy and not worth fighting for. The whole body politic is riddled with corruption and the electorate seems wilfully incapable of understanding.
Good luck for the future, Stuart Campbell. Despite it all you stayed true.
Sad day for the real Yes movement. The hangers on who hijacked the SNP for their own agenda are not the movement. I still think you need a holiday, a proper holiday when you switch off from everything related to wings for a couple of weeks. Perhaps that wee trip to Rio isn’t such a bad idea.
Gone light headed.
Who are you kiding?
Stay as a nation who gets no say in its fiscal and economic levels.
Who has never voted Tory in my long life time but I’ve lived most of
it under Tory rule.
Be the only nation in Europe not to have any input on Brexit.
Sit quietly with a PM who admits to hating Scots.
To watch debt rack up thru corrupt contracts for Tory supporters.
Get every level of English International Football on terrestrial TV but no Scotland matches.
Have the most controlled biased media in Europe?
No thank you to anything and everything unionist.
Wings’ well-researched articles represent investigative journalism of the highest quality.
The very large number of daily visitors and the tongue in cheek fund-raiser that exceeded £10,000 in a couple of days, show how much this was appreciated.
I hope very much that this is not the end for Wings, even though it is for independence.
Keep the money, Stu. You have earned it.
One good thing the absence of mist , complete twat
‘Luigi’
They are in the links as Stu wrote.
I am absolutely gutted that you are signing off, crying my eyes out here. Thank you, thank you and thank you for all your hard work over the past few years. All the best.
This is sad news. Alba may at least be a way for those of us who are enlightened to stay sane and comfort like minds.
Thank you for all your hard work. I totally understand why you need to walk away. All the negativity is toxic. I hope you find some peace and happiness whatever you choose to do. X
Thank you for all you have done over the years, especially the last few when you have been a beacon.
Enjoy life, take it easy and look after yourself.
Cheers
Ian
For the last few years the first thing I do in the morning is open the Wings blog. No longer having you there Stu is going to be a bitter pill to swallow, but I understand why you’re leaving.
I had hoped to see an independent Scotland before I die, but that hope is fading fast. I will continue supporting Alba and look forward to the day that the despicable Murrells get what’s coming to them.
I must admit that I used to read the WGD but the Sturgeon adoration just got too much for me, although I never imagined that Kavanagh would be so twisted.
So, wishing you all the best Stu and thanks for all the work and passion you’ve put into your writing, and for opening our eyes as to what is going on.
Scotland will benefit from the absence of Scots mist. and the Brigadoon indy thing (there it is-ooo no it isn’t).
Time to turn from childish things Scotland. Work for your living in a Union that supports you.
The EU would just make you into Greece without the olives and the sunshine. And that would be a god-forsaken place to be.
Oh and I agree with ‘Strathy’. Keep the money. I gave my share gladly!
I’ve only been reading here for a short time but what I have read has been interesting, well researched and hard hitting. No wonder the SNP troughers will be delirious with the news that you are stepping back Stu, sad day for independence and the for holding the bastards in Holyrood to account.
@ Carol Neill
You’re an arse. Hasn’t the penny dropped yet that SNP 1 voters have brought this about?
YOU are responsible.
I have to admire the Revs resilience and tenacity because if I was dealing with the amount of clowns that post on here, I would have thrown in the towel a long time ago.
Todays news is the first casualty of SNP 1. You’ve all helped bring this about.
Sad to hear that Stu. Will miss you a lot. Let me know if you and your partner ever want a wee holiday in Scotland, we have a lovely holiday flat on the prom in Portobello…not quite the Costa del Sol but yours gratis, just DM me.
What can I say that has not already been said?
Thanks Stu, you have been a light in a dark place for so long.
Gonna miss the Wings crew as well!!
Thank you Stu for all you have done.
You have my deepest respect for being a person of the utmost integrity.
I will miss your posts but fully understand.
I wish you well in whatever the future holds for you.
Keep well and be safe.
I feel abandoned….. bereft of hope
Heartfelt thanks for every post you’ve written on here – not one word wasted, absolutely clear and concise, beautifully written, and had me laughing out loud many times. I wish you well in whatever you do next and, should things change in the forseeable, haste ye back come November.
In common with yourself and many others, I also feel the dejection and betrayal. It’s all pretty keich, but there are plenty of good people still in the fight. As Scotland herself might say, “Heave awa’ lads, I’m no deid yet”
I will continue to be a financial supporter for as long as you see fit.
Haste ye back, Stu
Thanks for the journey Stu, the integrity in your writing has well proved the auld Scots adage,facts are chiels that winna ding.
Wishing you safe passage in which ever direction life may take you. Turas sabhailte!
Sad but inevitable result….a bit like Scotland’s ongoing predictable self defeating and self harming behaviour.
Anyway thanks Rev. for your brilliant if acerbic journalism; creating this wonderful controversial site; the ‘Wee Blue Book’; and most of all for your indomitable courage in fighting on behalf of Scottish Independence.
You will be missed. All the best.
On first hearing this, my heart sank. Oh wow I’ve read your words for many years. I hope you come back Stu, will really miss you.
In a dark sky you are a shining light which cannot go out.
When the shackles are removed ( as they will be soon ) and the truth behind the Salmond affair becomes public, the rule of Queen Nicola will be over.
By then I hope you will be sufficiently invigorated to continue your journey of enlightenment.
The SNP is dead; long live independence.
And there ain’t no point in flogging a dead horse.
Your information and writing has been invaluable over these last few years – thank you. And your ability to withstand the irrational toxicity has also been invaluable.
Yes, there is very little point in going over all the same stuff again and again, and I hope when you step back from the fray you find your life more fulfilling. Your skills in writing are amazing so I know you will have no problems finding a job or a new calling. A reset. Remembering how to live life, and discover other interests. Or rediscover old interests. Once you’ve stepped back for a while, you might find a refreshed inspiration, a new outlook that doesn’t focus on the grim side of reality.
I’m horrified by WGD’s actions.
I’m going to nag Gordon D into getting his last episodes of A Very Scottish Coup out, and be opinionated on any dirt there is there to dig out, as a last gasp before I become an unperson and am no longer allowed to hold an opinion – though I might just start trolling; calling everyone an arsehole might be my favourite. Scottish society will no longer be a place where any of us can hold an opinion soon enough, let alone us unpersons. It may be that the British State needs to be dismantled first, before we get independence, so some alternate strategies might need to be looked into (quietly, without giving an opinion obviously).
I wonder how those in The Party will feel after their glee, which they will no doubt express fully and in public, passes, and they realise the vacuum left behind from the loss of your blog doesn’t make them feel any more satisfied? They liked to blame all their woes on your blog, for pointing out what the source of the woes were, but not having them pointed out won’t make the woes go away. What a load of mince I talk. Anyhow,,,
Thanks for leaving the comments and the blog open for now, the gradual winding down gives us a less traumatic change (of which there are too many at the moment).
Wishing you all the best Stu.
The SNP is dead: Long Live Independence.
My Hero
You will keep your finger on the pulse in some way
Sending lots of love to you
You’ve done so much
TRUTH AND HONESTY
WAY BEYOND ANYONE ELSE
Thank you my friend in the dark hours
xxxx
You’ll be back!!
For what is the Rev what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught
To say the things he truly feels
And not the words of one who kneels
The record shows
he took the blows
And did it his way
I am very sorry to read this as I greatly admire your blog and I know what a huge job it is to run a blog with such an enormous quality output. I just want to relate a story which offers a little hope in these difficult times. In the mid 1980’s I was a guest of the West .German Government Party during their general election. Over the course of the two weeks I was there I met a wide range of very senior ministers and politicians.
I asked them all the same question Did they ever see the likelihood of the two Germany’s East and West being reunited and if so when? Without exception they replied Yes but probably not in their lifetimes. As I sat in my home only a few short years later and watched the Berlin wall come down I was struck by how quickly politics can change and how unforeseen opportunities can sometimes emerge, as if from nowhere.
I cling to the hope it can happen here as well although I concur it looks very bleak at the moment. Anyway I wish you well in the future.
ella says:
12 May, 2021 at 8:37 pm
Stuart, please consider a last hurrah of a fundraiser, let’s call it your retirement lift, I can think of nothing better to show the Sturgeon rabble how much we love you, and we do’
AYE tae this. Be delighted to contribute, my god you’ve earned it.
A good shift there Stu. Can’t add to what’s been said above. You’ve been brill.
I’m gonna post this twice and sign it with my name
Dave
I wish you the best, Stu. You (and the links you’ve provided) have been my primary source of news for the last several years.
Even though I stopped reading in recent weeks, I came back when I heard this news. There’s no doubt in my mind of the contribution you’ve made these last 10 years. Can we have a final fundraiser as a thank you for you personally. Not for Wings or campaigning. For Stu. Think of it as a redundancy payment or retirement lump sum.
Sincere best wishes for the future.
A good shift there Stu. Can’t add to what’s been said above. You’ve been brill.
I’m gonna post this twice and sign it with my name
Dave
Stu,
Sorry to hear your news. Let’s hope the police get a move on and the Sturrells get the jail sooner than later. However, I think they would have Lady Dorrian throw out the charges.
My last ever post here, I just remembered an apt Chris Cairn “drawing” that he drew on the 19th September 2014.
It’s a pity I can’t post a screenshot but it’s the one with the candle being snuffed out with hope written on the side.
Well, the candle has definitely been snuffed out for good and I can’t see anyone re-igniting that candle.
ALBA may never get the impact we hope for, I am trying not to be too pessimistic but it’s hard not too when you see the election results and the recent treatment of the pro-independence group.
@Gone right handed
Is your NdP due to your left palm being covered in blisters?
Too much enthusiasm over photos of HMQ and the Butcher’s Apron taking it’s toll? You can always pretend it’s someone else I suppose…
Jest feck aff wull ye, an dinna hae it skelp yer erse gang oot!
Stuart you are a true patriot. Come back and join the battle when you ready. Things can change. There will be better days.
Take great care and haste ye back, all the best from John Thomson and family.
Rev., to help boost your spirits, Kavanagh has posted the most awful cringing “justification” on Wee Ginger Dug. he is not getting a good response.
Take a break, hopefullymy No1 son will persuade to continue.
Constancy to Purpose.
A time for tribute to Stu not a time for the few to cast unwarranted aspersions. Please continue the tributes people. I am enjoying them and I hope Stu is too. Well deserved accolades. A Kraken of the Independence movement. Will be sorely missed.
Could we get a badge? Be nice to be able to identify fellow supporters. Is be happy to pay for one.
@robertknight
The Butcher’s Apron is a fine flag, and it’s name is no calumny. And Scots were at the front of it’s advance in world, and will be again.
That is a tough read, so hard to add anything to what has already been said well by others. Hard to contemplate a world without Wings. But sometimes from ashes there rises a Phoenix and it needs Wings. So let’s hope, before long, those of us who form the Indy Phoenix can welcome you back. Till then, stay well and enjoy life to the max. You’ve deserved it.
What you’ve done with Wings is legendary Stu. The quality of the writing and the accuracy of the research, always amazing. As you have often reminded us, you don’t just throw this shit together! Thank you.
Stay away from the fray for a while. Then I’m sure you’ll be influencing the movement again in whatever form or forum.
Rev you contribution to the independence cause has been incalculable. You gave us hope but above all you gave us truth. Where do we go now to find that in the putrid establishment that is this Scotland.
My best wishes to you and yours.
Mate, I’m just your average and its really none of my business I felt though I should say something. The yoons saw a 50 point lead evaporate, mainly because of their “positive case for the Union” and partly because people had your blog to refer their friends to and quote.
I do understand that sometimes the world is out to get you but “the truth is still the truth even if you stand in a minority of one”. The trans issue will go the way of Scottish Labour and in the meantime, who cares?
Take a holiday, do whatever you do and stop over thinking it.
What people get from you is journalism in a dry, facial entertaining way.
Anyway, have a good time ?. A fify point lead?? Lol!! ?
Well, I’m pleased you’re going Stuart. I was v nervous you would be amongst the first casualties of the Hate Crime Act and wish you to be safe, regardless. Your contribution to your readers’ sanity and dignity over the years, but especially the last two, has been invaluable – thank you. It’s a sad farewell. Things are bleak indeed for our country, as bleak as they were for those Spartans but – ???? ?? ???????, ?? ??? (after the dark, the light). Wink.
A wee word of advice don’t give the fkr the traffic maybe someone could let others know what shite he is putting out
But deny the fkr the visiting numbers
Dear God Stuart,
I’ve been too busy today to read through everything and only no
face the stark reality of losing the last flame of real journalism,
of truth and of justice.
I am so fearful of the future of my family I actually feel sick to my stomach.
I must thank you so much for sharing so many rare skills with us and for your
resilience and courage over the last 7 years that you have been educating me
and offering me some hope in this U.K. cesspit of political dystopia.
My sanity needs me to believe we can see you and your like again but you
go with my wishes that you have nothing but rich rewards in your life from here on in.
Sorry to hear of this.
But I fully get the depressing reasons.
I was appalled the way the First Minister kept up those attacks on Salmond, and from the Election point of view, the insistence on both votes SNP.
So a million votes get wasted.
However, I do hope ALBA does continue, and increases in strength.
The reality of it is, we have no choice but to turn to ALBA.
I was hoping the electorate would see thru the Media blackout, and anti Salmond spin, both by the Media Establishment, and SNP leaders.
Alas, it didn’t, and I wonder how many of those voters regret that List SNP, vote.
We have to keep the fight going.
Why am I not surprised by your decision?
Why is so much evidence required before a person is finally forced to admit what they’ve probably known for years? That is: too many Scots, over the generations of enthralment to Anglo-Saxon culture, have succumbed to self-colonisation and all that such a condition entails.
Nonetheless, with your fine mind and unstinting energy, what an extraordinary contribution to your country’s awakening yours has been! Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
Audrey Simpson says:
Could we get a badge? Be nice to be able to identify fellow supporters. Would be happy to pay for one.
This is a great idea STU, Would stick in their craw and remind them seeing WoS badges, that we have not gone away.
@Tannadice Boy
“A time for tribute to Stu”
You’re right of course, apologies.
Will pop back to admire Chris’ weekly etchings, but for now, it’s goodnight from me, and I guess it’s goodnight from him…
Cheers for everything Rev.
Goodnight!
Take a bow Stu – Scotland’s going to miss you.
Stu,
I’ve only followed your work for the last six months.As a Unionist I’ll find the discussion emptier without you.Politics never ends. Put your feet up for a bit and come back refreshed. Passion matters.
THANK YOU REV
And if there’s ever anything we Wingers can do for you…. just say the word man xxx
Gordon Keane says:
12 May, 2021 at 10:28 pm
Sorry to hear of this.
But I fully get the depressing reasons.
I was appalled the way the First Minister kept up those attacks on Salmond, and from the Election point of view, the insistence on both votes SNP.
Indeed. One can, if one squints, see that the SNP were not going to give Alba an endorsement for the list vote. But if they were truly serious about independence they would have basically waffled on non-committaly about the more pro-indy parties the merrier, that they were looking forward to greater level of debate about independence and the way forward, and let the voters decide etc.
But they didn’t do that, the attack was basically “you are a threat to our hegemony”.
Toodle pip.
@ Craig on 12 May, 2021 at 10:05 pm – Just for you! https://wingsoverscotland.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/hopesnuff.jpg
I am absolutely gutted to hear this Stu but, not entirely surprised. You have been dropping hints for a while now that you were nearing the end of your tether and who can blame you? What a herculean effort it has been. You are made of iron and navigated those choppy waters like a master!
You were a constant in the yes movement, a beacon of truth, an anchor point for us to cling to and make sense of so many things. It pains me to see you go but I also feel a sense of relief in that you won’t be carrying this burden anymore, and feel positive in the benefits this will bring to your own health and happiness.
You have done so much for us, the least we can do for you is say thank you, give you a hug and wish you the absolute best in life.
Thank you Stu, you are a living legend in my eyes.
I wish you well young man,I am not a fan of so called personalities and yappers devoid of thinking material or good old common sense, a lot of the people on the site explained everything far better than I could ever do, I am not really a political person you see, it actually bores the arse off me if truth be told.
But getting back to you and your amazing contribution to the cause, I salute you sir for all your efforts, I had a feeling it would all end in tears eventually, social media is toxic and certain people and organisations take advantage of the hard of thinking to punt whatever piece of utter piffle they can get you with.
I would never debate religion with an atheist as its a pointless debate as the atheist want’s proof, I have seen the proof first hand, but when I told people you can see the look in their eyes, ack David was probably pissed again, but as was said in the film, Liberty Valance, I am only as drunk as I want to be.
Anyway, as a last thing, many years ago I was going to write a book about how religion gets a bad press because of certain people who contaminated its message, I even have a name for it, but I decided not to put my head on the chopping bloke as to me the consequenses of writing it would have had a grave affect on my family, and that I could not tolerate, my own mortality has never worried me in the least, but others do not deserve to be put in danger because of me.
All the best, god is with you, even if you don’t believe it, you will be ok, you can’t keep a good man down, so go forth and when you meet any of the monkeys that have blighted your life to a certain degree, do as I do, tell them to feck off lol
And the name of my book would have been….
The Universal Court
Love and kisses XXX
Thank you for everything Stuart. I have been following your site since 2013. I understand your decision, but hope against hope that it’s not final. In the meantime, have you thought about using the site for the occasional non political article? I have happy memories of the World of Stuart site, especially the visits to Imber and Tyneham. Have you any plans to revisit?
At 69 years old I no longer expect to see in independent Scotland in my lifetime, thanks to Sturgeon and Murrell. SNP. Born 1934 Died 2018 (we just didn’t realise at the time).
If I’m in Bath, it would be an honour to buy you a drink. Look after yourself and stay safe.
Charles Fisher
Bathgate no more…
Cries inside..
Although I have only recently started commenting BTL, I, too have been an avid reader of Wings since shortly before the 2014 Referendum.
It would be a great loss for Wings to cease as you have rightly pointed out that you stand for the truth and you are very good at pointing out what is often the thinking behind some statements made by some who ostensibly stand for Independence.
The movement will suffer as a result.
Personally, as a divorced man whose in-laws all hale from Boghall, I often wonder if I have passed you in the street in the past.
I do hope that you will spend the time between now and November in reflection and reconsider whether there may still be a role for you in playing a part in Scotland’s future.
I very much regret the lengths to which others have gone to attack you and those you know, and trust that your friend will make a full and speedy recovery.
John
So many people have said most of what I feel, and yet I cannot say nothing.
Like others I feel like I did when Alex Salmond resigned on Sept 19th 2014, except that then there was something I could do, I could join the SNP and fight on. On April 6th I joined ALBA and will keep supporting them, but there is nothing I can do about losing the best Scottish journalist– one of the best journalists in the world–who kept the truth in everyone’s faces. We’ve been so lucky to have you, one of the last truth tellers in the ‘post truth’ world.
And I completely understand the feelings you so eloquently shared in your post. I share most of them, and I too am stepping back but…but I still hope this is just a rest and not the end for any of us.
Thank you for all the years of disentangling the lies, for your integrity, for your passion, for supporting the rights of women and children against the trans-cult craziness. You deserve good things, may they come your way. I know you will be back if there’s anything you feel you can offer, and I hope that day comes. Take care
@Robert Graham (10.27) –
Replies to WGD’s latest have been saved all evening, as and when they appeared. Doesn’t matter if he deletes them now.
He really should’ve self-muzzled as soon as this post was published.
He’s a very silly sausage!
I’m sad about this, but I can’t fault Stu’s logic. His mental health comes first, and if stepping back from Wings is what it takes to keep him sane and happy, that’s what he has to do.
It also seems to me that he’s right about any new independence campaign needing completely new people to lead it. The present toxicity makes all sides poisonous, even those who don’t have the self-awareness to realise it.
Sometimes you lose. We’re lucky. We’re not dead and the vast majority of us are not in prison or bankrupt. We have the option to change direction in our lives and do something else we find fulfilling. Many people left in the wreckage of independence movements have not been so lucky.
If by some miracle a second independence referendum does materialise we’re still here, we can pick up our flags and our leaflets again and get out there. But in the meantime, I’m off to write a book. About musicology.
You can see how many. many of us depended on your judgement. I can’t thank you enough and only hope that in time you’ll return to assist us in our fight for independence. ALBA needs you.
…. Would rather a drink with an honest prick than a dishonest yes man any day.?
All the best, no regrets, you did yours, and then some!
….bastards……
Cheerio!
Morag. 100% what you said. Thank you.
I just wonder where the new SNP MSPs are going to find out what Princess Nicola and her version of the SNP are getting up to because they certainly ain’t going to get it from her and her circle of bent twisted fkn weirdos that believe independence is a thing other people do .
I agree with your assessment and I understand why you are doing this. Doesn’t change the fact that I am going to miss the posts which taught me that there is such a thing as journalism: Before Wings all I saw was chancers with no skills evident. Now I know they don’t have to be like that and, done well, journalism has real value: well it did till now. I will miss you and I will be much less informed in future.
The worst thing is it won’t matter. Not while the situation remains as is.
I sincerely thank you for your integrity, and your research and your insights. I wish you all good things for the future, and a role which will make use of your talents.
Thanks for all you have done over the years. Here’s hoping that your skills find a good home, and that the lights are only temporarily extinguished.
Thanks Ian I thought I would remind folk just to deny him any income from site traffic
@robertknight 10:31pm
No worries no apologies required. Stu is having his well deserved moment. The Scottish political scene is diminished by his absence.
Nick Cave’s Ship Song is a poignant coda to a magnificent shift in the cause of independence for our tortured wee nation. As the craven main stream media take one step closer to extinction and they cheer it on it’s time to put yourself first. Raising a glass to you.
Thanks for everything.
@Robert Graham (10.56) –
Have to confess, I did drop in earlier.
Somewhat quieter than this place, and there was a strange sound, couldn’t work out what it was…
…turns out it’s the noise that scales make when they fall away from eyes.
Thank you Stuart.
Have been reading since day one, initially baffled by the lack of video game reviews and trips to decaying seaside attractions. But without this site I would not have been out campaigning for independence, and might not have seen through the propaganda by myself.
So, it’s a shame. But I fully agree with your reasons, it’s been downhill all the way since 2015, and there’s no chance of a referendum any time soon. Very disappointed with the SNP and it’s acolytes, I thought our movement was better than that. But once hope dies only petty infighting and holding on to power is all that matters.
Anyway, be well, take it easy. I’m sure we haven’t heard the last from you, you’re a good writer and a man of principle and morals.
Thats a shame, though understandable. As an english guy I fully support the scots in their wish for independence (i did vote brexit for similar reasons) For what its worth I think independence will be won within ten years, after the car crash of the SNP has been taken out with the trash. Best wishes Stu, and good luck to you.
Dear Stu,
So sorry for us that you have decided to go but a decision like that is never easy to do, and I hope that you feel a lighter load on your shoulders already. Take it easy and stay safe, you are a giant in the fight for Independence.
You have been a beacon, like a lighthouse, keeping Scotland off the dangerous rocks but too many now are blindly using satnav, letting it lead them into danger without any questions.
I first found your blog when reading that your Wings posters had been banned from the Glasgow underground. Have probably read your blog every day since then and there will be a huge hole now.
Your writing has always been incisive, informative, entertaining and forensic and it will be sorely missed.
Thank you for the many hours of reading, friendship, discussion and analysis.
I guess it is up to us now but we are standing on the shoulders of two giants – Stuart Campbell and Alex Salmond.
Take care my friend and fare well!
Vais con Dios!
I’ve been dreading this.
This has been my go to indy blog since 2013 and I’ll miss it so much. I can’t say I blame you though – it must be terrible to be on the receiving end of so much hatred and spite.
A prophet is truly without honour in his own country.
Barring some kind of miracle, there’s nothing to look forward to for at least the next five years and I now believe I won’t see independence in my lifetime, which makes me sad beyond words.
I think you should do what you want with the money, but the hope that one day I’ll see another Wee Blue Book will be the spur that keeps me going.
Thanks for everything.
Thanks for all you have done. I concur that things are mostly futile now. I hope some event or a chain of them changes that.
Be happy, enjoy life, smile, stay healthy. Scotland’s cause will call again. Live long enough to answer it.
Robert Graham says:
12 May, 2021 at 8:54 pm
“I guess it will be party time on the doging site I wonder what they will discuss when there is no one from Bath the sneer at”
If you want to keep your supper down, don’t go there. Yuck.
This news makes me sad, but not sorry.
I would have no objection to you taking any money received.
No one who contributed can fail to appreciate the great value they have received in return.
See it as gardening leave.
The penultimate paragraph is the most pertinent:
The shame belongs to the betrayers.
You, the former FM, Craig Murray and others persistently shame the pretentionist politicians and journalists that have chosen to debase themselves into flunkeys and claquers.
That is what drives their cowardly vindictiveness, the gnawing shame that they will never match anyone of you in ability or integrity.
Its a wretched sort of solidarity, I suppose.
The difference between the smug and the self respecting.
As for me, while 2014 certainly changed me, 2021 is not going to.
I can’t honestly think of anything better to continue to support, or worse to oppose.
Rev,
You made me Sokath, his eyes opened.
But Shaka, when the walls fell…
Temba, at rest.
Stuart- thank you for everything.
I’m gutted and a little shell shocked as visiting your blog has been like a daily ritual and will leave a large hole.
I remember getting my sister to take a photo of me holding a wings banner from my hospital bed way back at the start and she couldn’t get why I was so excited about a blog. Well, I’m pretty sure I’ve read every article since then.
There is nobody who comes close to your style, wit and daring and Wings will be sorely missed by us all.
Best of luck for the future.
Very sad to see you go old bean.
You will truly be missed.
Take care of yourself and thank you.
Thank you for everything you’ve done and endured, above and beyond what most of us could bear.
I hope there will be a good reason to see you back again, but whether there is or not, may you be well and may you find joy in whatever you choose to do next.
It feels like the lights are going out one by one. I do hope this is just a guttering flame Stu, and you’ll be back brighter than ever at some point.
Refresh yourself, take a scoop of that cash and do nice things. We can stumble around in the dark for a bit, but please return to light our way again. In your interview with Alex Salmond, you twice noted times when you felt “I’m going to have to do this myself”, and you did. Nobody else can hold a candle to you, and although there are still a few other honest writers out there, there is no one like you. And we need people like you.
In the meantime, thanks for all you have done.
Haste ye back.
I was going to say I’d miss reading your articles, but on reflection they mostly make me angry – nothing to do with your honest reporting, of course, I just can’t believe what a sewer this country is becoming.
I hope you find something fulfilling to do that doesn’t reward you with hate and slander. Personally, I take comfort that Almighty God will bring into judgement everything done under the sun. Sturgeon et al will have to answer for what they’ve done, as will we all.
Very sad news but understandable – it is important to enjoy your life. You’ve put in a phenomenal amount of hard work for the benefit of so many and you are a gifted writer and investigator. A revolutionary movement cannot succeed without knowing how to expose its opponents’ lies, its own lies and its friends’ lies. You leave us all much more educated on that score, even if the truth was and is hard to bear. (Yes to IB’s idea for a coffee table tome, The Big Blue Book?!) Last but very much not least, so sorry about your friend and here’s to their speedy recovery. You will both visit an independent Scotland we will all make sure of that.
Gregory Beekman,
With sails unfurled.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT95lnPB9Vo
There comes a time, usually in workplaces, where the individual is SO hacked off that they damage themselves and everything around them. Then it is time to move on, make a fresh start elsewhere.
Personal anger doesn’t belong here. The movement for independence is too big, too important for personalities to cause it damage. Extreme opinions, words and actions play into the hands of the press. Many extreme words have been spoken and there has been much anger. Leaving the stage now seems appropriate for you.
Fuck…
Let’s hope you don’t forget this
For ah’m no’ awa’ tae bide awa’,
For ah’m no’ awa tae le’e ye,
For ah’m no’ awa’ tae bide awa’,
Ah’ll aye come back an’ see ye.
All the best.
It’s sickening Stu, it’s got me considering moving to England if they try and amend the age of consent laws. We may be fighting for English independence from Scotland soon. Thanks for your many years of good work. Dunno where my first port of call online is going to be now?
Stu, just wanted to add my thanks for all you have said and done down the years. You have always been right, and I think you are right again – it’s not just that Sturgeon has delayed independence but she has poisoned the well. Thank you for opening my eyes to this fact many months ago, so this is not as sad a day as it otherwise would have been. I agree with many others – please do a final fundraiser so we can show our appreciation of you one last time.
You are doing right to put yourself first, the abuse that has been meted out to you for writing truth is appalling and as for what you have revealed about your friend today, I have no words. So sorry.
You have given Scotland your all, and it’s time to stop banging your heart against the mad buggers’ walls.
When will we see…your likes again…
I can and I can’t believe that you’re off. You’ve been such an inspiration to the Yes movement and it’s going to be weird not to get my weekly fix of Wings’ forensic reporting. Man, there’s going to be some happy people around when they hear that the Rev is screwing the top onto his pen and putting it into his pocket for a while. I can see their sneering whining tweets now.
I, like all on here, look back with happiness at the joyous days of the referendum and I feel privileged at my wee contribution to the WBB by turning it into a website ( btw theweebluebook is still there and I’ll always keep it going)
But Nicola’s now queen of all she surveys, including that useless, overpaid chocolate teapot of a husband of hers, who’s only still in post because she is. And I feel myself drifting away from the struggle because what’s going to happen now to further the cause of independence? Not much, although you can never quite be sure what events will transpire to bring about the change we need.
Anyway, tioraidh! Hee hee, no likely to get banned now for the gaidhlig
Truly saddened, though not altogether surprised, to learn of your decision, Rev Stu.
I hope something between now and your November deadline will make you decide to carry on but if it doesn’t . . .Slàinte!
Go raibh maith agat as gach a rinne tú! Go n-éirí an bóthar leat!
As you all know I’m Irish with a Scottish family background and a supporter of Scottish Independence
I just want to remind Scots that the road to Independence is long. It has been over 800 years long for us Irish and we’re still not at its end.
But we’ll get there, as will Scotland.
Somebody wrote above “We lost the battle and then sadly we lost the war.”
Learn from defeat. Get the measure of your opponents, as the Rev had every day he wrote something.
“many will give up the fight” – They probably will. Others will take their places, sooner or later and the wheel of independence will move again.
@Gone right handed says:
“The Butcher’s Apron is a fine flag, and it’s name is no calumny.”
The name is apt – Barra 1851, Amritsar 1919, Ballymurphy 1971.
I shall miss this site, particularly the searching analysis of what is actually going on in Scottish politics, and Chris Cairns’ superb cartoons which have illuminated many a Saturday morning.
While Scottish independence may not be an immediate prospect, I recall Alec Salmond’s dignified resignation speech on 19/9/14 in which he stated that “for Scotland the campaign continues and the dream shall never die.”
Lol, it looks like Wings’ exit from the independence scene has made the BREAKING NEWS in the ‘real meedja’, i.e., The Herald, which I’m sure you’ll find touching. They so appreciated your work.
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/19298427.wings-scotlands-stuart-campbell-announces-quitting-blogging/
Surely only a matter of time before an ‘exclusive’ expose about blogger fleeing the country with a suitcase stuffed with readers’ readies & a pair of Speedos. Hey, it’s more than you’ll need on the Copacabana. Have a piña colada on me! ?
Over the past few months I have been reading your blogs and they have helped inform me of the depths of despair even independence supporters have over the quality of the SNP and the management of Scotland.
I’m originally from Scotland but had worked in England for 20 years. In 2012 I ‘came home’ with my English husband and 4 year old twins, he was persuaded to move because I told him we had a good education system. It was the biggest mistake of my life.
What I did not know was that devolution and the hatred of anything English had destroyed the Scotland of my childhood. Scotland was given the responsibility of devolved powers without any accountability. The Scottish Government and Education Scotland have made terrible decisions that were the opposite of England. In 2002, SG allowed Scottish educational psychologists to wash their hands of diagnosing learning disorder like dyslexia while in 2005 in England educational psychologists and special teachers were trained on how to assess and remediate dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia etc.
In 2005, England completed one of the most comprehensive and scientifically sound reviews on the best way every child needs to be taught how to read. They chose the method developed in Scotland. So every child in England is taught how to read using Scottish research (synthetic phonics). In 2007, a further repost was published to say that synthetic phonics was the only effective way to teach a child born with dyslexia how to read. What did Scotland do? Refused to use sound evidence and recommendations of the two Rose reports, simply because they were ‘English’ reports. Instead in 2011, the SG funded North Lanarkshire Councils to promote (and sell) their literacy programme ‘Active Literacy’ to all the other Councils. The design of Active Literacy was effectively banned in England in 2006/2007 because the ‘whole language minimal phonics’ has been scientifically proven to be an ineffective way to teach children how to read, especially those born with dyslexia.
Why is this important, because unknown to me one of my children was born with developmental dyslexia. My child was emotionally and academically harmed by the Scottish system of not diagnosing dyslexia, not using synthetic phonics and using Active Literacy. After 5 years I had to take him out of school and teach him learn how to teach him myself.
I sent John Swinney a recording of my son’s emotional breakdown, he finally told us what had been really happening in school. His response was ‘I have no power over Councils in Scotland’, go back to your Council with any complaints.
I took South Ayrshire Council with the Dyslexia Friendly School system to the Additional Support Needs Tribunal. I had 3 International experts giving evidence, but the parochial Tribunal panel preferred the evidence of SAC expert witness, a fake Scottish ‘professor’ who knew nothing about dyslexia or phonics instruction. In fact he was the one responsible for deskilling the educational psychologists. As far as they were concerned my child got ‘the best Scottish education had to offer’. The performance of the fake professor was on par with NS, Lesley Evans and Lord Wolffe re the Salmond committee.
For all those who want Independence remember that the SG has been making ‘independent’ decisions for 20 years the children have been suffering and there is no recourse to ‘correct’ mistakes. The changes to the function of Scottish educational psychologists and the increasing child suicide rates are linked, but no-one is investigating.
The blogs were a way of holding those in power to account and it is a shame that they will stop, but totally understandable as to the reasons why.
Caroline’s Herald link archived.
https://archive.is/SXla3
I’m feeling very sad after reading your latest post. Like many others, I had high hopes when Alex Salmond and ALBA exploded into the scene and for 5 weeks the 2014 spirit returned. The result of the election broke my heart as at 58 years of age, I don’t think I’ll see an Independent Scotland in my lifetime now. All the very best to you Stuart, you shone a light in the darkness and gave us all hope. Take care bud.
Without your eloquence I have no words that come close to describing the importance of all you have done for Scotland and her fight for independence. We are in your debt. Heartfelt thanks.
The last few months have been hard to bare with the brief exception of the launch of ALBA. The response by the SNP nicla faithful has been eye opening and horrifying. So much for saying they wouldn’t be put back into the shortbread tin after 2014, that’s precisely what’s they have done as they shun the truth and mock the messengers.
I don’t blame you in the slightest. No point in banging your head against that brick wall anymore- its not about to shift. I’m off the concentrate on my painting. I hope you find something equally satisfying and rewarding- you deserve it. Thank you Stu.
And where do we search for the light now? You shone the light into dark places! Now they can remain hidden!
Yes Stu please take a break by all means! You thoroughly deserve a rest! And so much more!
But please consider that without your important platform, the darkness will surround and consume us all!
We desperately need to remain informed! It is oxygen to us!
And the cause with its young and tender shoots, needs this pulsating source of light to grow!
Please return soon Stu refreshed and re-newed!
Absolutely gutted.
I don’t think your boots can be filled with regard to your integrity and your forensic political analysis.
Scotland will be a darker place without WoS.
But I can’t blame you, goodness knows you’ve taken more than your fair share of flak over the years but it’s quite another when folk are so vindictive as to affect others around you, best wishes.
By random coincidence, I was reading an article about the Top 100 ZX Spectrum games this morning and the wry, companionable, highly readable prose seemed familiar.
Turned out it was written in 1991 by a young man called Stuart Campbell!
In those days, Your Sinclair and the whole Speccy scene was winding down after a glorious decade of gaming fun. It was the end of something wonderful, but also the beginning of new adventures. Mr Campbell would go on to be a legend in the world of gaming journalism with Amiga Power, and a good time was had by all (except Team 17 and the Royal British Legion)
Sometimes that’s the way it goes, new beginnings. It’s been a privilege to read Stuart’s insights into Scottish politics, and I am grateful for his honesty and passion. I can understand him feeling scunnered and wanting to do something else. But he has a talent for writing, and I suspect that as long as he keeps writing, on any subject he feels like writing about, he’ll have plenty of readers.
If you feel like looking to the heavens for a sign, there’s meant to be a very good chance of seeing the northern lights tonight.
So, if you head oot for a pish later, keep yer chin up!
😉
Sad times, Stu. Thank you is not enough for all you’ve taught us and for your example of fortitude against all the odds. I’ll be at the Alba Party conference next month and hope our paths will cross somewhere down the line. Let me know if I can help you feed the ducks some day, or if you’d like me to send you my infamous Muffed A Duck video! ?
Noooooo!!!!!!
I made what I now realise was the mistake of reading the Wee Ginger Creep’s response to the allegations above. What kind of weirdo makes entirely unsolicited contact with a women to enquire if she’s been sexually assaulted. To compound that utterly creepy reprehensible behaviour by failing to apologise beggars belief.
I don’t know if WGD was always scum and I just couldn’t see it before or if his hatred of Stu has warped his judgement or if he’s a misogynist without a shred of basic respect for women or a mix of all three but his actions have been utterly disgusting.
Reading his response one wonders if this third party who gave him the false information really exists because based solely on his own account of his behaviour I wouldn’t put a fishing expedition based on a story he’d invented himself past him. Either way he’s vermin.
I hope Stu’s friend makes a full recovery and is able to put the whole horrible episode behind her.
What will I do without your articles to read Wings?
Don’t you give up the writing – even if it doesn’t appear on here.
In the darkness we all need a light of truth. You are that light. I found it here on WOS in 2014. It will be a sad day if WOS is finished.
I wish you all the best and thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done.
Wobbly.
Hurry back
Thank you very much for your massive contribution over the years. The Wee Blue Book was great. And this blog.
I hugely appreciate your honesty, your commitment to proper research, and basically your integrity. And your respect for your readers. Leaving it to US to form our own opinions, rather than the tedious propaganda ‘opinion-formers’ who I have no interest in.
I am disgusted to hear what happened to your friend. I wish them well.
I will miss your blog immensely.
At this point, I think MANY of us require a rest and time to think. Delaying your final closure of the site is both considerate and wise. I too would be keen to contribute to a fundraiser.
Is there ANY positive side?
– The country is coming out of lockdown just as Craig Murray is made an example of. This does provide a rallying-point for those of us who ARE aware of what is going on.
– Despite the proposals for foreign travel, we MAY have enough folk vaccinated to avoid yet another lockdown in the autumn. Even if one is proposed, grassroots campaigns will not necessarily be halted by it. People will not be dominated by covid forever.
– The SNP’s financial difficulties have been highlighted. And is not possible fraud now being investigated? Unless the SNP can morph VERY rapidly into a Brexit Party style business, funded by big pharma, then it may collapse soon.
– Such a collapse would force MANY of the uninformed, or in denial, SNP voters into a rethink of their allegiances.
– MPs and MSPs could form different groupings. And send party levies elsewhere. Defecting to Alba is an option for some?
– Alex is likely to have learned from the mistakes of over-centralisation or unopposed coronations. Planning ahead, is Alba not likely to be run with a level of autonomy given to each of the 8 regions? Genuine leaders can in this way emerge, both working as a team and offering a range of options for the future.
– If either of the 2 pending legal actions he announced 2 months ago allow some truth to emerge, his stock may go up. As may Alba’s.
– Women won’t wheesht. And, again, as the public become more aware of the destruction of women’s rights, Alba’s ‘transphobia’ may rapidly become more ‘electable’.
– things can change very quickly in politics. The impact of brexit has not really been felt in jobs yet. The economic impact of covid is still to come.
– all of us have been changed by our experience of covid restrictions, and although some will revert to old ways, many will not. We are both MORE digitally based, and likely to value REAL, IN PERSON, LOCAL interactions more. The former can broaden our available resources and contacts. While the latter builds a resilience independent of central government control.
I wish you well for a rest and other ventures just now. And hope that by November, in some way, we will ALL be looking at a happier future.
Happy roosting Rev!
The bella/dug community will obviously delighted to be relieved from comparison with your readership.
A summary of FOI requests and polls on the front page will testify the work done.
It would be a reminder of the hearty nourishment of independent investigation over the delicacy of PR puffs, sprinkled with navel gazing, finished with just a soupçon of self pity.
It’s been an emotional few days for sure.
Hopefully this community won’t be reabsorbed into the Matrix.
It’ll be interesting to find how the chat develops. Thanks for leaving it live so I don’t have to go cold turkey.
Nickety nickety.
Don’t let the name fool you Rev
I was still a big supporter of Indy.
And you led the way.
Stu
I had the honour to shake your hand at Fill The Hill 2013 I hope to repeat that honour one day. Scotland owes you big time.
Stay safe and healthy. Respect you’re a legend.
.
Dear Stuart,
I am relieved to see you go.
IT REALLY IS NOT SAFE FOR YOU IN THIS COUNTRY AT THIS TIME
Dr David Kelly sort of unsafe.
Only one person has done more for the right of Scots to determine their fate. That person is the Rt.Hon., Alex Salmond.
Stuart Campbell, that is pretty awesome company to be in.
Pious hypocrite Nicola Sturgeon has Derek MacKay, the forty year old (alleged) paedophile, youngster-grooming pervert as her peer-group pal.
Putting the overpromoted Dreghorn Dirker aside, today has been a strange one.
It will have been a nightmare decision for you to take.
But also the beginning of the end for Sturgeon and her political gerrymandering. She just does not know it yet.
Nicola thinks that after the Climate Change event this year, she has a future as a world class ambassador or envoy or some such, with prestige, bodyguards, high salary and limousine. That is her plan after she has finished her FM scorched earth policy killing off the SNP and IndyRef2.
Nope. She will serve jail time. Whatever your belief system, it is commonly called karma.
Stuart, when all is said and done…
I believe history will treat you kindly.
In fact, I believe when the lawbreakers at the top of the SNP and their enablers at the Clown Office, and ex top-cops at Poultice Scotland have been arrested, cautioned, charged and in the dock, you will return to report on events. You will do this SAFELY, writing your words without the worry of jail, nor the Sword of Damocles, nor the Malfeasance in Public Office being part of the current regimen.
My friend, please remember
All political careers end in failure.
Tony Blair was a political God in May 1997. He went from Messiah to Pariah in just a few short years.
Sturgeon, Murrell and all that crowd will have their claws removed from the levers of power. That will scare them shitless. They will then be vulnerable. Honest people will then see these miscreants brought to justice.
We will see the extinction of the Hate Crime, GRA and Thought Crime laws. They are all challengeable as ultra vires immediately upon Royal Assent.
All the gerrymandered “laws” of McWokeism will be struck down: Gender Crime, Being a Terf Crime, Being a Woman Crime, Being a Winger Crime.
Two last things…
A). Wee Ginger Daggers self-pity-fest Paypal Kavanagh will see justice. Any Daggers call me out on that? Even the disabled can be arseholes. I know: as a terminal myself, I’ve met one or two in palliative care. Seldom have I known such a disgusting evil creep as Kavanagh.
B). We should never underestimate Alex Salmond. The coming court case, or some other event will be the trickle of water through the political damnable of Scotland, that becomes a torrent that destroys the dam. The damned Sturgeonite McWokeist lawbreaking dictatorship will be washed away.
With delicious irony, I bet you a years supply of catnip computer cable as favoured by your four legged friends that YOU, Stewart Campbell WILL BE BACK.
Nicola’s legacy is her, aged 60 looking 75 stoating about looking like the elderly Tony Blair in drag.
Her network of pals at the Clown Office and Poultice Scotland WILL see the real world AC12 with Martin Compston, Aidrian Dunbar and Vicky McClure cleaning up the BENT senior cops.
With all of the above coming to pass, it WILL be very difficult for you, Stuart Campbell, NOT to return and launching…
Wings 2.0
Until then my friend, stay safe, enjoy life and be happy.
I think the Yes movement need to drastically change tact. Other countries that have won independence have done so by rejecting their rulers and taken to the streets. Using those tactics we would grind the whole of the UK to a halt.
Jeez – it really feels like a menacing darkness is quickly spreading across the land! First the election results, then Craig Murray, now this! All the unionist MSPs, MPs and media who use this site to obtain ammo and stories will be crying into their cocaine tonight. Queen Nicola will be “purring down the phone” when she hears. Total respect to you, Rev! You have been an absolutely formidable force for independence and for truth. You are a prime mover and shaker and I hope you’ll be back someday to have the shameful liars, thieves and charlatans kakking their breeks again!
My very best wishes for your friends. My hart goes to them.
Know that every child you have saved by shining a light on what “certain people” is up to is better off. That is an enormously important achievement. And a lasting one.
Know that every eye you have opened have made someone better equipped to handle reality.
Know that every seed of truth you have planted have made the world a better place.
You can be more proud than I can express with words.
Thank you
.
The Glasgow Herald article on Wings closing the door but not locking it (until November).
Archived here in case the Glasgow Herald pull it down or change it…
https://archive.is/SXla3
https://caltonjock.com/2021/05/12/craig-murray-lady-dorrian-questioned-the-crowns-motives/
Craig Murray, faced a contempt of court hearing after posting information on his blog in advance of Mr Salmond’s trial. The contempt proceedings at the High Court, Edinburgh, before Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian, heard Alex Prentice QC, for the Crown argue that information Craig posted on his blog in January 2020 could lead to jigsaw identification of the women involved, breaching a contempt of court order, creating a substantial risk of prejudicing the trial.
Cheerio, Cheerio, Cheerio…etc
I’m a unionist but have read Wings for a long time. Possibly expecting a pile on, but I think your logic is/has always been bang on the money except for the starting point that Scotland is a separate entity from the U.K. Who will take on the gender woo woo mutters if you don’t?
Well I am now bereft of places to get my unbiased Scottish political fix.
I can see why you are done with it.
The daft cunts won but have no idea how much they are about to lose.
I have a few friendships that will be on edge due to their utter fuckwittery and just believing the SNP/Unionist media line.
5 years of nothing ahead.
Good luck.
No bear will be unpatrolled on the mean streets of Bath.
Thank you for being a light in the darkness the Stevenson family would have been proud to have built.
Did voting SNP quicken the demise of Wings Over Scotland?
Thank you Stuart. You’ve done even more than YOU know…
Alastair, Calgary, Canada.