Scottish independence: 7,000 expected at Edinburgh rally to back independence

THOUSANDS of people who support independence are expected to join Alex Salmond at a rally in Edinburgh today.

Organisers have avoided making public predictions on how many will turn up to the pro-independence rally. However, it is understood that discussions between the City of Edinburgh Council and organisers have estimated 7,000 marchers.

Activists will gather at the Meadows at 11am before marching to Princes Street Gardens, where they will listen to over 20 speakers including the First Minister, Margo Macdonald, Denis Canavan and the Green MSP Patrick Harvie. Joining the politicians will be television personality Hardeep Singh and the singer Pat Kane, who will compere the event.