Last updated at 11:05 24 February 2008

Sir Sean Connery today revealed his belief his native Scotland would become independent within his lifetime.

The former James Bond actor, aged 77, believes the country is "within touching distance" of achieving independence.

Connery, who now lives in the Bahamas, hinted he may return to his home country after previously saying he would only consider moving back if there was an end to the Union.

In an article for a Scottish national newspaper, the actor praised Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond and the work of the SNP government since it came into power in May 2007.

He wrote: "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."

He adds that the first step towards this was winning Scotland's parliament in 1997.

The second, the actor says, was electing an SNP Government last year.

He added: "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, Connery also hails Scotland for securing its own parliament for the first time since the "parcel of rogues" sold its freedom in 1707.

He said Mr Salmond is "the best leader Scotland has ever had" and claims the SNP's opposition parties "can't keep up with the pace".