Scottish independence: Duncan Bannatyne backs Union

Duncan Bannatyne says he was attacked by racists. Picture: Robert Perry

Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne has backed Britain staying together.

In coming out against Scottish independence, the Clydebank-born tycoon yesterday claimed he had been ­attacked over his support by “racists”.

Mr Bannatyne, 64, was moved to declare his backing for the UK, after an aide to Russian president Vladimir Putin branded Britain “just a small island that nobody listens to”.

He tweeted: “We might be a small island but we are a great country made up of Scotland, England Wales & NI that should stick together as 1 & not separate (sic).”

That brought some mixed comments with Mr Bannatyne telling one follower: “Thankfully most of us are not as defeatist as you.”

But he replied: “Defeatist is the last thing Indy is about.

“Fiscal powers, democracy and a whole lot more for my kids Duncan.”

Mr Bannatyne added: “Amazing, Russia slags us off, calls us a small country no one wants to listen to.

“I defend & get attacked by racists.”