Only time will tell if Scotland’s decision to remain part of the UK is a missed opportunity or a narrow escape. I suspect the former, not that it matters.

Two remarkable things came from the referendum. The first was an extraordinary democratic exercise informed by a public dialogue the likes of which this country hasn’t seen for a very,very long time. Regardless of the outcome I am immensely proud to have been part of that.

The second is the aftermath – a UK-wide debate on the validity of centralised government.

Colours to the mast time: I sincerely hope this is a catalyst for meaningful change, not just for Scotland, but the whole UK which is struggling under an outdated, centralised power-base that is unsuited to the needs of a diverse, well-educated population of the 21st Century.

This is a debate that doesn’t need the (often) shrill ramblings of nationalist rhetoric. Rather, a simple acknowledgement that it’s time to move on and embrace change.

Scotland’s referendum attracted a turnout of more than 85%. Imagine that level of participation across the UK. What a sight that would be.