NEXT week marks the 10th anniversary of one of the most important decisions in South Ayrshire's - and Scotland's - history.

On September 18, 2014, the nation went to the polls in a historic day for the Scottish independence referendum.

In South Ayrshire, a total of 81,716 votes were cast, a turnout of 86.1 per cent of the total electorate.

More than 34,000 votes were put in favour of yes, with 47,247 in favour of no, while 67 were rejected.

The Advertiser reported at the time that Yes campaigners clung to each other in despair at the count in Ayr’s Citadel when two years of hope came crashing down.

And months of tense worry melted on No camp faces as they cruised to a victory.

(Image: Archives)

Following the vote, Labour MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock, Sandra Osborne, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the result – it has been a long campaign.

“But it has been great to see so many people engaged in the political debate. Now we need to come together to work for what is best for Scotland. I’m looking forwarding to delivering legislation for further devolution when I go back to Westminster.”

But South Scotland SNP MSP Chic Brodie predicted another referendum in the near future and was scathing of devolution promises.

He said: “I am disappointed at the outcome and I believe we will be back in this situation sooner rather than later.

“I don’t believe the promises made by Westminster will be manifested.”

South Ayrshire Council leader Bill McIntosh added: “We are delighted with the result in South Ayrshire.

"We have shown our passion for Scotland – now we have to build on that momentum. I want to compliment the council staff who have run the referendum count so successfully – thanks to them and let’s move forward together.”

Despite the result, campaigners for the Yes side had a party to celebrate the passion and positivity generated by the movement. 

Ayr Yes campaigner John McGuire said: “We just wanted to go ahead and have the Town Hall party.

“We started this campaign two years ago and could have held our meetings in a phone box as we had so few people.

“But our last meeting before the referendum l saw 80 people turn up in Ayr. We have had surgeons, window cleaners, builders and architects helping us.

“It was great craic and we never had an argument. I have made so many new friends. I don’t think we had an argument.

“We just have to move on now."