Independence supporters have launched a new fundraising drive aimed at building majority support for the cause.

The move was announced by the Scottish Independence Convention (SIC), an umbrella of pro-independence groups, representatives and political parties.

It intends to fund the set-up of a new campaign organisation, run by full-time staff, to work alongside grassroots activists across the country.

Recent polling has consistently shown support for independence remains below 50%.

A spokesman for SIC said: "This is our chance to build on our immensely strong base and if this campaign set-up gets the funds it needs, its purpose will be to drive support for independence further than ever."

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The new campaign body was backed by the SNP's Westminister leader Iain Blackford, and the Scottish Green Party's co-convener Maggie Chapman.

Pamela Nash, chief executive of pro-union organisation Scotland in Union, said: "Poll after poll shows that people know we are better off as part of the United Kingdom, but the SNP and the Greens simply don't want to listen.

"Rather than spend time setting up an organisation in the hope of creating more constitutional chaos, most people would rather there is a fresh focus on improving schools, our NHS, and the economy."