Baton twirlers - and argument - for Sakchai

The rally for Sakchai Makao took place a couple of days ago. From someone who was there:

I went to the meeting last night - it was heartwarming. We learned that an event last Saturday had raised £1750 in 50 pence pieces, and that local baton twirlers had raised another £1000.

See the report here:

[It] was another outburst of support in which people from all walks of life wished Sakchai the best when he faces a judge on Friday.

Fund raising events have generated around £8,000 to help his fight, while his employers Shetland Recreational Trust have agreed to foot the bill for his case.

Good will messages came in from as far afield as Australia... and local MSP Tavish Scott pledged his continued backing to the Shetland fo[r] Sakchai campaign.

Finally Sakchai himself gave a heartfelt speech to the assembled supporters. "My father once told me I would find my best friends in times of trouble, and I have discovered them here... I love you all," he said.

Mr Scott described it as a "very positive and forward looking" event. He said: "There is a confidence in the strength of argument that's been presented by this community and the Shetland for Sakchai campaign.

"Now everyone is looking to those who have this extremely important responsibility when they preside over the tribunal on Friday to look at the evidence that supports Sakchai staying in Britain, and therefore in Shetland..."

100 MPs, from all parties, have backed a Parliamentary motion in support of Sakchai. (Thanks: BrS.)