LAST week, the Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP undertook a number of engagements in Inverclyde as the referendum campaign hits the final straight.

Firstly, Nicola officially opened the Yes Inverclyde shop on Cathcart Street in Greenock.

Alongside this, Nicola spoke to patrons in Café Flava and Café Continental as well as answered questions form a packed Gamble Halls in Gourock.

There was so much interest in the question and answer session that we had to ask Yes supporters to give up their seats to allow those undecided voters to come in and hear what Nicola had to say.

It was a tremendous evening and I’m sure Nicola will have persuaded many in the packed audience of the benefits of independence and the once in a generation opportunity we have for Scotland to make its own decisions.

The case for Scottish independence is a strong one and built on making Scotland a fairer society.

FINALLY, good luck to every pupil as Inverclyde’s schools return today.

Primary 1 pupils begin a new journey in their lives and I’m sure their parents are more nervous than their children.

I’m sure however that within the next few weeks the pupils will be fully settled.