AUCHTERARDER RESIDENTS lined the march route through their town yesterday—and were rewarded with waves, smiles and complimentary comments.

Despite all the fears it was hard to find any locals with a bad word to say about the conduct of demonstrators.

“I firmly believe everyone has a right to protest,” said Lesley Venters as the march snaked its way past her home.

“I was actually a bit concerned when it was suggested the protest would be cancelled and am glad to see it going ahead.”

Another said he had enjoyed some “banter” with marchers.

“Protesters were happy to have a laugh and joke with us, shouting to put the kettle on,” he commented.

“In the main it seemed to be a real carnival atmosphere and actually very enjoyable.”

Another admitted fears had been running high but—despite the trouble at the fencing close to Gleneagles Hotel—was glad to see no evidence of damage to personal property.

“People were worried before this but it has been fine,” she said.

John Whitelaw also lives on the route taken by marchers.

“I am very happy to have the G8 here and it has actually caused nearly no disruption to my life,” he said.

“Obviously some frightening things have happened, in particular with people lying down and blocking off main roads.

“However, there have certainly not been any problems close to my house.”

Local Auchterarder councillor Colin Young also had praise for the vast majority of protesters who had conducted themselves in a responsible manner yesterday.

He also thanked local people for welcoming demonstrators to their town.

“I was at the park when protesters arrived and everyone seemed intent on peaceful protest,” Mr Young said.

“It is clear they wanted their voices to be heard and it is good that it has been.

“The reaction from local people to the march and to the G8 in general has been fantastic,” the councillor continued.

* A dozen brightly-coloured costumes were on display at the march, thanks to Glasgow charity Scottish Carnival Arts, who had created devils, angels and more.

Among their number was refugee Zahra Qadir, from Afghanistan, who was demonstrating against war.

She said, “I don’t know if we can make a difference but we can show that we exist and we are going to try to fight them.

“They made me a refugee. Britain has sold so many landmines and bombs to my country. All I can do here is protest.”