MORE than 3,000 people marched for an independent Wales on the weekend.

Thousands joined the first ever March for an Independent Wales in the Welsh capital on Saturday May 11, which was organised by AUOBCymru (All Under One Banner Cymru).

Spokesman for AUOBCymru, Llywelyn ap Gwilym, said they were expecting a big crowd, and they weren't disappointed with the turnout.

“Despite the early start for supporters travelling from north Wales and further afield, everyone was in high spirits," he added.

"It was fantastic to see the flags and banners, to hear the music and singing, and to bear witness to this historic day.

“While we wanted to bring the independence debate off social media and onto the streets, we also wanted everyone to have a great day out. I think it’s safe to say we succeeded on both counts.”

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Marchers gathered around midday, with the march starting at 1.30pm, led by a pipe band, a banner declaring: ‘Annibyniaeth IndyWales’, and three huge flags, following a route through the centre of Cardiff.

Numerous speeches followed the procession, near the statue of John Batchelor, who was a Welsh businessman and politician as well as a ‘friend of freedom.’

YesCymru chairman, Sion Jobbins, kicked off proceedings with marchers chanting: “What do we want? Independence! When do we want it? Now!”

The leader of Plaid Cymru, Adam Price, wrapped up the speeches and said: “When the great story of our nation’s independence is written, in the very near future, it is this generation that will be able to say ‘we got there because we marched.’

“United in our goal. Ignited in our passion. All under one banner. In our hearts. In our minds. Already free.”

AUOBCymru is a Welsh grassroots movement, inspired by the All Under One Banner movement in Scotland. It is supported by numerous groups who share the aim of securing an independent Wales and is not aligned with or affiliated to any political party.

“We wouldn’t have had such a successful march without the help of a large group of dedicated volunteers who have gone above and beyond,” added Mr Gwilym.

“We’ve had great support from the South Wales Police and Cardiff Council, to whom we are very grateful. But most of all we wouldn’t have had such a wonderful event without each and every person who turned up. Diolch o’r galon.”