THOUSANDS of people marched through the streets of Edinburgh today in support of Scottish independence.

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

6 Credit: Getty Images - Getty

6 Credit: Alamy Live News

Joanna Cherry, the SNP MP who led the legal fight against Boris Johnson's decision to suspend parliament, was among those who addressed the rally.

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.”

Gemma MacFadyen, 34, took part in the march.

She said: "I'm here to support the cause for independence.

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."

Bands, bikers, dogs, people in fancy dress and countless Saltire flags were all part of the rally.

Chants of "What do we want? Independence" could also be heard roaring up Edinburgh's Royal Mile.

Harry Baird, 19, wanted to join what he believed would be the biggest rally in the country's history.

He said: "There's a lot more than I thought I would see, to be honest.

"(I want) more radical and instant Scottish independence.

"Any change from what it is now would be worth it."

AUOB's rally through Edinburgh in October last year was estimated by organisers to have attracted more than 100,000 people, although Police Scotland put the attendance figure to around 20,000.

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Earlier this year Nicola Sturgeon said she would demand Holyrood was given the power to hold a second referendum on independence.

The SNP is expected to put its opposition to Brexit and outline its calls for another poll at the centre of its manifesto in the event of a snap election.

But Boris Johnson outlined his opposition to the plan at the Conservative party conference, claiming more referendums would cause "total national discord".

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