Tributes to ‘Scottish patriot’ Yes Biker after tragic crash
Alexander McCracken, who was known as Sandy, died in hospital on Sunday after a collision with a campervan on the A87 at Glen Shiel two days earlier.
He had been en route to Skye to take part in the All Under One Banner (AUOB) independence[1] march, which saw hundreds cross the bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh on Saturday.
Police publicly named McCracken, 73, on Sunday evening, and tributes from fellow independence supporters have been pouring in ever since.
We are saddened to hear of the tragic death of @YesBikers Sandy Mccraken who rode his last ride to the Isle of Skye on Friday for yesterday's demonstration at Kyleakin. Our deepest condolences. pic.twitter.com/6R2WulXvGw[2][3]
— All Under One Banner (@AUOBNOW) August 27, 2023[4]The Yes Bikers for Scottish Independence group wrote on Facebook: “We have spoken with Sandy’s family and they have told us that Sandy had said when it was his time to go he wanted to go on the bike and his partner Sheila says it is fitting that when it did happen he was home (Scotland).
“Many of you will know that Sandy was an avid supporter of Yes Bikers and had attended many of our rides all the way from his home in Coventry.
“YesBikers would like to express our deepest sympathy to Sandy’s family (Sheila, Sandy's partner, son William and daughter Rhonda) at this very sad time.
“You will be sadly missed Sandy. We will remember you Yes Biker and patriot.”
Yes Skye and Lochalsh wrote: “Our deepest condolences to Sandy’s family, friends and Yes Biker community. Rest well, the fight goes on.”
AUOB also paid tribute, writing: “We are saddened to hear of the tragic death of Yes Bikers Sandy McCraken who rode his last ride to the Isle of Skye on Friday for [Saturday’s] demonstration at Kyleakin. Our deepest condolences.”
Hundreds more paid their own tribute on social media.
Dan Livingston wrote: “An absolute gentleman and avid Scottish patriot… I’m sure if he was around at the times of Wallace and the Bruce, he would have been out there front and centre.
“He will be sorely missed as he was such a focal point in the Yes Bikers rideouts.
“Rest in peace Sandy we will honour your life by continuing the fight for Scotland’s freedom.”
“No one did more miles supporting marches than Sandy, ride free sir!” Steven Kelly added.
Laura Marsh wrote: “Really sad news. Condolences and deepest sympathy to Sandy's family and friends. This is a tragic accident. Another great Yesser who sadly won't see Scotland free but his spirit will live on.
“Rest in Peace Sandy McCraken, forever a Yes Biker.”
Yes Bikers at the AOUB March in Kyleakin today with the bridge in the background. pic.twitter.com/18A6RxbH8B[6]
— Martin MacDonald (@Innealadair) August 26, 2023[7]Others suggested fundraising for a plaque to honour McCracken’s memory, while one person wrote on Twitter/X: “So sad we won't see him again. Funeral is gonna be a doozie.”
The Yes Bikers are known for their engine-roaring displays at independence rallies across the country.
SNP[8] councillor Serena Cowdy said: “I'm so incredibly sorry to read this. I had the pleasure of talking to Sandy at an event – what a warm, decent man and passionately devoted to the cause. My deepest condolences to Sandy's family, friends and loved ones.”
Crawford Reid wrote: “RIP Sandy, ride free. It was a pleasure riding by your side at the marches.”
And John Buckham added: “RIP Sandy another star to brighten up the heavens.”
References
- ^ independence (www.thenational.scot)
- ^ @YesBikers (twitter.com)
- ^ pic.twitter.com/6R2WulXvGw (t.co)
- ^ August 27, 2023 (twitter.com)
- ^ Yes Bikers inspire next generation of young Scots raring to go (www.thenational.scot)
- ^ pic.twitter.com/18A6RxbH8B (t.co)
- ^ August 26, 2023 (twitter.com)
- ^ SNP (www.thenational.scot)