Ewe

This is a note I have saved on my

phone dated 23/6/2016 7:00am. I drafted it in a note and then posted it to Facebook as my prediction of the outcome of the referendum being held that day.…

My prediction is a close verdict but a win for Remain 52-48%.

And whatever happens, I'm proud of this country, it's past, despite our faults, it's present, despite our faults, and confident of the future, whether we're part of Europe or not and whatever faults each outcome may hold.

In the last month I have sat and watched 300 militarised police officers manage 18 men from the EDL. And 6 police officers wearing rainbow epaulets mingling with a crowd of 300ish people because some Americans had been shot for reasons of hate and ignorance. The human race has the capacity for great stupidity, hatred and ignorance. This vote isn't about the views of the ignorant. They are pulled along by a sensible and generally balanced majority and society improves regardless.

If we stay in the EU or leave, we'll be fine. The ability of this country is too great not to be able to make the best of things. Inside the club changing it if needs be. Or outside and making our own way should that be the outcome.

The main thing that will stick with me is the words of someone who wanted to stay in the EU. Whether our leaders are in Westminster or Brussels, I hope they strive to be a bit more like her:

"...we are far more united and have far more in common with each other than things that divide us.”

Jo Cox (22/6/1974 - 16/6/2016)