Scotland seems divided into three distinct groups. There’s the 10% who obsessively hate Nicola Sturgeon. Hate is a strong word, but these folk clearly despise her and cannot stop thinking or talking about her. They see Sturgeon as Scotland’s equivalent to Beelzebub.

Then there’s the 10% who obsessively idolise Sturgeon. Likewise, idolatry is a strong word, but these folk clearly see her as a figure who can do no wrong and will sing her praises at the slightest opportunity. They see her as a Caledonian version of Joan of Arc.

Then there’s the rest of us: the vast bulk of the country who - whether pro or anti the SNP and independence – couldn’t care less what Sturgeon says or does anymore now she’s out of office and has no meaningful impact on our lives. This 80% is the nation’s silent majority.

I’ve been away for a while touring Germany, but even in the depths of the Black Forest I couldn’t escape the endless blethering about Sturgeon that pumps from the press, TV and social media.

Flick on your phone for a quick check of the Scottish news, and someone is having a conniption fit about her. Dare scroll through social media and her battalions of supporters are rallying to her side.

Note to obsessives: there are really bad things happening around the world that are far more worthy of your attention.

Yet, lately, the mad blethering comes against a slightly different pattern of behaviour by the former first minister.

Read more by Neil Mackay

Why Andy Burnham just made a huge mistake when it comes to independence

Drill, baby, drill: we are like Nero fiddling while Scotland burns

 Stop........

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