Sir Sean at the opening of the Scottish Parliament

The 77-year-old former James Bond actor, who lives in the Bahamas, says Scotland is "within touching distance" of achieving independence.

Writing for the Scottish Sunday Express, Sir Sean praises the work of the SNP government which gained power in the devolved parliament last year.

He has been the SNP's most high-profile supporter, donating thousands to funds.

Sir Sean, who was born in Edinburgh, has previously sworn not to return to the country until it is independent.

In the article, Sir Sean praises Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond and the work of the SNP government since it came into power in May 2007.

Sir Sean writes: "I've always been hopeful about Scotland's prospects. And I now believe more than ever that Scotland is within touching distance of achieving independence and equality."

The first step towards achieving this was winning Scotland right to a separate parliament in 1997 and the second was electing an SNP Government last year, the actor says.

"I believe we have what it takes to take the third step, and I am convinced it will happen in my lifetime."

In the article, Sir Sean also hails Scotland for securing its own parliament for the first time since the "parcel of rogues" sold its freedom in 1707.