The campaign to keep Scotland in the UK has asked people to stop sending small donations – because it has been inundated with cash since its leader went head-to-head with Alex Salmond on television.

Better Together chairman Alistair Darling was widely credited as the winner of the first live televised debate with Scotland's First Minister, and the no campaign said it has paid off in cash.

Yes Scotland said Better Together was funded by "billionaire bankers, property companies and Conservative party supporters", many of whom do not have a vote and are least likely to support a more equal society.

Better Together campaign director Blair McDougall said: "We have had so many small donations following last week's TV debate that we are now asking people to stop donating to us.

"It's really encouraging that so many people want to support our campaign.

"Alex Salmond had the chance to be honest with people of Scotland about the risks of independence, but he failed to do so. It's no wonder Scots are rejecting separation when we don't know what money our wages, pensions or benefits would be paid in if we left the UK. We don't know what currency we would use to pay for our schools and hospitals. Alex Salmond can't expect us to take a leap in the dark on the basis of his blind faith.

"Scots have lost patience with Alex Salmond and the yes campaign are losing the arguments that matter. This is the biggest decision in Scotland's history. Those of us who believe that the brightest future for Scotland is to remain in the UK will be working flat out between now and the vote on 18 September. We cannot be complacent for one second.

"We have a positive message for those who have yet to make up their mind – Scotland can have the best of both worlds as part of the UK. We can have more powers for Scotland without losing the strength, security and stability of being part of the larger UK. Only separation puts that at risk."

A Yes Scotland spokesman said: "As the Financial Times reported recently, the no campaign is funded by 'billionaire bankers, property companies and Conservative Party supporters' – the very people who are least likely to support a fairer, more equal society in Scotland, and many of whom do not have a vote in the referendum.

"The snap post-TV debate poll showed support for Yes at 47% and the First Minister won the debate by a margin of some three to one among undecided voters."