WATCH: Stuart Greer is outside a polling place in Edinburgh as millions of Scots are expected to turnout to cast their vote in the historic referendum on independence.
EDINBURGH – Even before the polls opened at 7 a.m., thousands were lining up to cast their ballots and take part in what many are calling the most important vote in British history.
It’s a dull, foggy and drizzly day in the Scottish capital but people are brimming with excitement, nerves and anticipation.
A record turnout is expected with 4.2 million people registered to vote – 97 per cent of the eligible population.
For the first time, 16- and 17-year-olds are exercising their right to vote.
Overnight, Scottish tennis hero and 2013 Wimbledon champ Andy Murray delivered a bruising smash to the “No” campaign when he endorsed the “Yes” side, and separation, on Twitter.
He cited all the fear-mongering as his reason. “No campaign negativity last few days totally swayed my view on it. Excited to see the outcome. Let’s do This!”
Scottish separatist leader Alex Salmond hailed the announcement. “I hear that Andy Murray has hit another winner today, which is great news.”
The “No” side condemned it as “irresponsible” and “extremely ill-advised,” revealing its nervousness.
It will be a tense and thrilling 24 hours.
Results are expected Friday between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. in Scotland.
Several pubs have extended their closing times into the wee hours of the morning so people can watch the results come in.
It’s feared the potent cocktail of booze and political drama may spark drunken clashes. Police in Edinburgh and Glasgow will be high alert.
At least one polling station was already hit with a spray-paint sign on the wall: ‘Vote Yes or Else!”
But from what I’ve seen today the vote has been peaceful and dignified.
No matter which way it goes, the “Yes” side is promising a huge rally outside the Scottish parliament Hollyrood tomorrow afternoon – either to celebrate separation or to demand British Prime Minister David Cameron keep his promise of giving Scotland more powers following a “No” vote.
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