Thousands march for Scottish independence

Thousands rallied in Glasgow on Saturday calling for Scotland to become an independent country, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon telling the crowds that their goal was "within touching distance."

The Scottish National Party (SNP) leader was the headline speaker at the event in George Square, the first time she has addressed an independence rally since the 2014 referendum campaign, with a crucial general election looming next month.

Aye. #Scotland is not England. England was built by Scots. Make Robbie Burns happy, make the future Scotland's to decide. https://t.co/xpLeseCeCs

— PapaJonezy (@PapaJonezy) November 3, 2019

"Make no mistake, the general election we face now on December 12 is the most important election for Scotland in our lifetimes," she told the crowds.

"The future of our country is on the line. 

"We must come out in our numbers and vote in this election," she added, insisting that the "prize" of independence was "within touching distance."

"We must seize that prize," she urged.

Sturgeon is expected, before Christmas, to formally ask Johnson for a Section 30 order, which would give Scotland's devolved government permission to stage a referendum.

Another Saturday another Glasgow march for me, Scottish Independence supporters marching from the West End to George Square where @NicolaSturgeon will speak to thousands later on @LBC @LBCNews pic.twitter.com/0Kknj7gFiG

— Alan Zycinski (@AlanJZycinski) November 2, 2019

Supporters waved the St Andrews cross emblazoned with the word "Yes" and Catalan flags in solidarity with the fellow independence campaign.

Others wore kilts and played bagpipes, including one musician who had flames leaping from his instrument.

Scotland voted against independence in a 2014 referendum by 55%.

But nationalists argue that the 2016 British referendum in favour of Brexit means another independence referendum is necessary - because Scotland voted by 62% to stay in the European Union.

Nationalists also argue that some people voted against independence thinking it would guarantee their place inside the EU.

Sturgeon promised supporters on Saturday to "lead you to an independence reference next year."

"It's time for Scotland to choose our own future, time for Scotland to be an independent country," she added.

A small number of pro-Union protesters carrying Union Jack flags staged a counter-demonstration.