More than 100,000 join pro-Scottish independence march in Edinburgh

The streets of Edinburgh were awash with thousands marching for a second Scottish independence referendum as pro-Scottish groups took to the streets. 

Groups and organisations who support separation from the UK joined the All Under One Banner (AUOB) procession on Saturday.

Organisers estimated that more than 100,000 people took part in the event.

Gary Kelly, of AUOB, said: ‘It’s buzzing – the rain may be on but the people are not deterred. Our appetite for independence is still alive.’

Gemma MacFadyen has backed Scottish independence since she was a child.

The 34-year-old from Edinburgh said: ‘I’m here to support the cause for independence.

‘To be honest, after the last referendum I was a bit deflated and disenfranchised and I was not going to be taking part anymore, but recently after a trip to the west coast of Scotland I’ve been re-inspired – so I’m here today.’

‘I’ve not really been caught up in the whole Brexit debate, I’m not bothered about that. But I am for another independence referendum, as soon as possible – it should’ve been ages ago.’

The march began at Holyrood Park at 1pm and began proceeding up the Royal Mile from there.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did not join the event but said she was there ‘in spirit’.

She tweeted: ‘Good luck to everyone marching for independence in Edinburgh later. I’m not able to be there in person today, but I will be with you in spirit. Have a great day. And be in no doubt – independence is coming.’

Tired of playing second fiddle: Marchers from the All Under One Banner wish for Scotland to be given another independence referendum

A man dressed in a union flag shirt shouts at the pro-independence march from behind the protection of police officers as the nation’s flags fly behind him

A young boy joins a woman in holding up a sign saying ‘Independence Is Normal’ as a small dog looks on, appropriately dressed in plaid

The day was rife with electric atmosphere as the those that joined were quick top show their distaste to the current governing political party

As marchers carried on the streets were lined with people proud to display their love for their heritage as one man joined the march in a kilt

Blue was definitely the colour of the day as revellers basked in the electric atmosphere, bringing a smile to the faces of everyone who joined the march

Regardless of how people were travelling, what was important was their unified presence on the day, all moving in solidarity

The day was filled with the sounds of people and music as the pro-independence marchers carried on through Edinburgh’s streets