Is this the day Britain dies? Millions head to voting booths across Scotland as 170,000 Don't Knows hold key to separation

Scotland goes to the polls today as a final series of opinion polls last night suggested the future of the UK hangs in the balance.

Polling stations opened at 7am this morning and people have until 10pm to cast their ballot, with the result expected to be known by breakfast time tomorrow.

The crucial ballot, which could see the 307-year-old union between Scotland and England brought to an end, is expected to go down to the wire, with polls showing the contest is too close to call.  

After a frenetic final day of campaigning from the rival sides yesterday, the turnout is expected to be high, with 4,285,323 people registered to vote, according to the Electoral Commission, and for the first time 16 and 17-year-olds across the country will be able to take part.

Alex Salmond promised voters 'the opportunity of a lifetime' in his final speech given in Perth last night 

Gordon Brown was hailed as having given the speech of the No campaign after imploring voters in Glasgow to 'have confidence' and say No

Wednesday night saw the final and most ferocious night of campaigning with much of Scotland lit up with signs in favour of or against independence. A No Thanks logo lights up Edinburgh castle

A giant Yes sign, created by campaign group The Hills Have Ayes, appeared on the Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh