Thousands join 'yes' vote rally

Thousands of people have joined a march and rally in Scotland’s capital, calling for a Yes vote in next year’s independence referendum.

The event in Edinburgh appeared to draw crowds from across the country, with marchers filling the top half of the Royal Mile before wending their way along a city centre route.

During the day, the gathered crowds were expected to hear speeches from key figures in the pro-independence movement such as First Minister Alex Salmond and his deputy Nicola Sturgeon.

The campaigners gathered in the city’s High Street before heading slowly along North Bridge, Waterloo Place and Regent Road towards the final destination of Calton Hill.

A range of groups took part in the protest, from political parties to organisations such as Farming for YES and Football Supporters for Independence.

Many of those assembled waved flags or held banners in support of their cause, turning the streets into a sea of colour.

The event follows last year’s independence rally which brought around 10,000 people onto the streets of Edinburgh, marching from the Meadows in the city’s old town to Princes Street Gardens for speeches and live music.

It comes just days after campaign groups and politicians marked one year to go until the referendum on September 18 2014.

Thousands join 'yes' vote rally