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Supporters gather for Scottish independence rally Thousands gather for Scottish independence rally
(about 2 hours later)
Supporters of independence are gathering in Edinburgh for a rally backing a yes vote in the referendum. Thousands of independence supporters have gathered in Edinburgh for a rally backing a yes vote in the referendum.
Alex Salmond is due to address the March and Rally for an Independent Scotland, which is not part of the official Yes Scotland campaign. Alex Salmond was due to address the March and Rally for an Independent Scotland, which is not part of the official Yes Scotland campaign.
Supporters gathered in the Meadows before heading to Princes Street Gardens where more than a dozen speakers will address the crowds. Supporters waving saltires and lion rampant flags met in the Meadows before heading to Princes Street Gardens where speakers addressed the crowds.
The SNP leader wants to hold the referendum vote in autumn 2014.The SNP leader wants to hold the referendum vote in autumn 2014.
The rally is the first in a series of events planned in the run up to the independence vote. Lothian and Borders Police estimated that about 5,000 people were taking part in the march and rally.
Independent MSP Margo MacDonald and Scottish Green party leader Patrick Harvie are among those who will make speeches. It is the first in a series of events planned in the run up to the independence vote.
Independent MSP Margo MacDonald and Scottish Green party leader Patrick Harvie were also due to make speeches.
Important stepImportant step
Comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli, lawyer Aamer Anwar and writer Alan Bissett will also attend along with representatives from groups including Scottish CND, Young Scots for Independence and Citizens Against Public Service Cuts. Comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli, lawyer Aamer Anwar and writer Alan Bissett were attending along with representatives from groups including Scottish CND, Young Scots for Independence and Citizens Against Public Service Cuts.
Organiser Jeff Duncan said the number of coach seats booked suggested thousands of people from across Scotland were likely to turn out, with many more expected from Edinburgh itself.Organiser Jeff Duncan said the number of coach seats booked suggested thousands of people from across Scotland were likely to turn out, with many more expected from Edinburgh itself.
Mr Duncan said the event was the first of three rallies, with another planned for this time next year and the biggest set for September 2014.Mr Duncan said the event was the first of three rallies, with another planned for this time next year and the biggest set for September 2014.
Mr Salmond said in a statement on the event website: "The March and Rally in Edinburgh is another important step on the road to completing Scotland's home rule journey and I look forward to seeing you all there".Mr Salmond said in a statement on the event website: "The March and Rally in Edinburgh is another important step on the road to completing Scotland's home rule journey and I look forward to seeing you all there".
Margo MacDonald said: "Forget the partisan posturing. Get there and stand four-square with other independently-minded folk".Margo MacDonald said: "Forget the partisan posturing. Get there and stand four-square with other independently-minded folk".