MSP Siobhian Brown admits she still feels a "deep sense of disappointment" over the result of the Scottish independence referendum. 

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 Ayr representative for the SNP says she still believes independence is the way forward - 10 years on from the decisive vote. 

She said: "Ten years on from the independence referendum, I personally still feel a deep sense of disappointment that Scotland remains in the grip of Westminster.

"We've endured years of Tory austerity, and now, under Labour, the people of Scotland face more hardship with the failure to scrap the cruel two-child benefit cap and the means testing of winter fuel payments.

"We have tried those two ways, and it is clear to me more than ever that it is time for a third way. Independence."

Ms Brown admits conversations must be had around key issues, but says circumstances have changed enough for another look at the issue. 

She explained: “A decade ago, there was much fearmongering around currency, pensions, and defence.

"If we are to convince those with doubts, we must have meaningful conversations about what these things truly mean for our people and provide clear answers.

"Yes, it was called a once-in-a-lifetime vote, but that was before the cost-of-living crisis, Covid, and our exit from Europe against our will.

"I still believe independence is the best way to secure a bright future for our children.

"Scotland is the last colony left; it is time we take control of that future, rather than remain at the mercy of our London masters."