Scots go to the polls as historic day dawns

Scotland is poised to make history today with a momentous vote on independence as No campaigners warned it was on the verge of falling through an economic trap door, while Yes activists insisted it was on the brink of rising to nationhood.

Those in favour of maintaining the union held a sliver of a lead as a new poll gave them a 51%-49% edge over pro-independence supporters among decided voters.

And with a sizeable number of people yet to make up their minds in a referendum expected to see a turnout of between 80%-85%, the outcome appeared too close to call.