Scotland has voted no against the independence campaign that would have seen the country ending its 307-year-old union with England and Wales.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) were defeated in the historic referendum after being out-voted in 26 authorities.
Over 4 million people had registered to vote in the busiest day of Scottish electoral history, with a turnout often well over 80%, although it dropped to 75% in Glasgow.
The yes campaign fought a noble campaign, winning 53% in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest, 54% in West Dunbartonshire, 57% in Dundee and 51% in North Lanarkshire.
The no camp, however, was overwhelmingly victorious in areas where it was expected to do well, including Edinburgh, Aberdeenshire and the Borders.
In the final event, the no vote won marginally by 10,545 to 9,195.
Despite such a victorious win, the result carries the risk of further tensions, with MPs from the Conservative party threatening to rebel against the prime minister's promise to increase its spending and increase Scottish parliament’s powers.
After speaking to Labour former chancellor Alistair Darling, leader of the no campaign, Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted a congratulatory message, telling him it was a “well-fought campaign”.
SNP First Minister, Alex Salmond said: “Scotland will work constructively in the interests of Scotland and the rest of the UK.”
The Queen, has been following the referendum with interest and will make a written statement next Friday afternoon, focussing on reconciliation.
The vote will ease recent concerns over the state of Scottish shipping should it have gone independent.
