WINNIPEG

Excitement and anxiety mount a day before Scotland votes on independence

The Associated Press Published Wednesday, September 17, 2014 5:55AM CST

Cupcakes at Cuckoo's bakery in Edinburgh, Scotland

A view of cupcakes decorated with the Union and Scottish Saltire flags, and question marks, at Cuckoo's bakery in Edinburgh, Scotland, on Sept. 17, 2014. (AP / Scott Heppell)

Text:

EDINBURGH - Excitement and anxiety are mounting in Scotland on the final day of campaigning before an independence referendum.

Supporters of separation feel they are within touching distance of victory, but wonder whether their surge in the polls will be enough.

Voters who want to stay in the United Kingdom fear the country they live in may soon cease to exist.

The campaign has been peaceful, if heated. But the gravity of the imminent decision is hitting home as political leaders make their passionate final speeches on Wednesday.

Cathy Chance, who works for Britain's National Health Service in Edinburgh, says she'll leave Scotland if it becomes independent: "I don't think the world needs another political barrier."

On the other side, Yes campaigner Roisin McLaren says she "can almost taste" independence.