Talking politics in British pubs can be a tricky subject but Scotland's independence referendum has prompted two Glasgow bars to pin their "Yes" and "No" colours to the counter.
The "Yesbar" is busy with young, well-dressed drinkers, many wearing "Yes" badges, who have come straight from work in the city centre to talk excitedly about the prospects for independence.
"It's all they want to talk about," said barman Chris Moore, between pulling pints.
"We still get regulars who are 'No' voters. It's all been good, friendly banter, no fights. It's given people a social hub."
The bar is actually called the Vespbar but has re-branded for the duration of the campaign and some staff are even offering free kisses for "Yes" voters.
The District Bar, a pro-British stronghold near the home of Rangers Football Club, is backing the "No" vote.
Both bars show how the debate ahead of Thursday's vote has come to dominate everyday conversation.
Although it has avoided serving independence-themed food or cocktails, Moore said that business at the bar -- a retro Italian-themed joint -- has actually doubled since the "Yes" supporting owner renamed it a few weeks ago.
At a table near the bar, a group of young separatists from a nearby electrical engineering firm have come out for a post-work drink to discuss the referendum.
"People always keep their politics private but it's nice to have a place that connects with that," said one, Michael McPartlin.
His colleague, Alistair Deering, said that the mood in Glasgow, which polls indicate is leaning towards a "Yes" vote overall, was optimistic.
"This is a fantastically exciting time to be alive. It's just vibrant, there's tangible hope," he said.
Silent majority say 'No'
Glasgow is considered Scotland's nightlife capital and most pubs have not affiliated themselves with one side of the debate or the other, although the referendum still dominates many bar room conversations.
Across the city, the pro-British District Bar flies the Union Jack flag outside but displays no flags or posters behind the bar.
It is a favourite watering hole for fans of nearby Rangers, which is strongly affiliated with the union and whose fans often sing Britain's national anthem "God Save The Queen" at matches.
Here, the regulars -- who range from police officers to shipyard workers -- are horrified by the prospect of Scotland becoming independent.
The pub setting allows them to vent against First Minister Alex Salmond and his Scottish National Party (SNP).
Landlord David Currie, who wore a "No Thanks" badge, feared that taxes will shoot up after the referendum, regardless of the outcome.
Drinkers George Houston and William Henderson said that while the "Yes" campaign is making the most noise, a "silent majority" of "No" voters will ensure Scotland does not become independent.
"My social life is more or less in here or with my family," said Houston, a retired sheet metal worker.
"I wouldn't discuss it (the referendum) with my family because it might embarrass them.
"But I wouldn't fall out with anybody over politics. You'd be fighting every day."
AFP
Tue Sep 16 2014
'Referendum cupcakes' featuring a Scottish Saltire, a Union flag and a question mark symbolising the 'undecided voter' are pictured at a bakery in Edinburgh, Scotland. - AFP Photo/Ben Stansall
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.