World Bulletin / News Desk

Scottish business leaders have written an open letter in support of a vote for independence in next month's referendum.

The 200 entrepreneurs, including Stagecoach director Brian Souter, head of Clyde Blowers Capital Jim McColl and former William Hill chief executive Ralph Topping, signed a letter published in The Herald newspaper.

The letter stressed the economic advantages for Scotland of a 'Yes' vote on September 18.

The letter said: "Scotland must look outwards to the world of opportunity that awaits us. A Yes vote is the business and jobs opportunity of a lifetime for this and future generations."

The letter comes after 130 Scottish industry leaders voiced their support for staying in the U.K.