In Pictures: Thousands join '˜biggest ever' independence march

Thousands of pro-Independence supporters marched through Glasgow Picture: Andy Buchanan\Getty Images

THOUSANDS of independence supporters took to the streets of Glasgow yesterday for what organisers described as the biggest march of its kind in history.

Organisers of the event called All Under One Banner estimated that 17,000 people marched through Scotland’s largest city in support of independence.

Police Scotland had a slightly more conservative estimate of numbers saying between 13,500 and 15,000 people took part.

The procession started at Kelvingrove Park in the West End and wound its way through the city centre to Glasgow Green for a rally.

Supporters waved Saltires and banners as they walked through the city.

All Under One Banner is a pro-independence organisation which organises public processions in support of Scotland regaining independence.

SNP politicians and other prominent independence supporters joined the marchers.

Those making speeches included the socialist Tommy Sheridan.

A man holds a banner saying "Free the haggis" as he takes part in the March for Independence. Picture: Robert Perry/PA Wire

Some supporters took to social media to share their enthusiasm.

Writing on the All Under One Banner Facebook page, Steve Davis said: “The march was amazing. I felt so proud today. Well done AUOB”.

Another participant Claire Mack wrote: “It was buzzing!! What a great crowd!”

Opponents of independence took a more cynical view of the exercise.

Alan Roden, communications director for Scottish Labour, tweeted: “Absolutely delighted that so many nationalists are marching in Glasgow today while our activists talk to voters about what matters to them.”

Scottish independence has featured prominently during the election campaign.

The SNP’s opponents have argued that a vote for them can stop Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for another referendum.