THE gap between the Yes and No votes in the independence referendum appears to have narrowed, a new poll suggests.

Research by ICM found 39% of Scots are backing independence, up two points from last month.

Over the same period the proportion of people wanting Scotland to stay in the UK fell from 49% to 46%.

The poll found 15% of the 1010 people questioned were undecided about how to vote in the referendum, which will be held on September 18.

Around 43% said independence would be bad for the economy, while 36% said leaving the UK would be good for Scotland's economy, and 6% of people believe independence would make no difference.