POLICE will mount a security operation in anticipation of a massive city centre gathering once the referendum result is known.

Officers will be deployed to George Square in the event of any celebrations -or potential backlash.

It comes as the Evening Times revealed police officers' rest days were cancelled for the referendum.

Chief Inspector Mark Sutherland, area commander for the city centre, said a police plan was in place and offiers were "ready" to deal with any situation.

He said: "We are prepared for the city centre to be used as a venue to celebrate or demonstrate unhappiness at the result of the independence referendum.

"A full policing response will be in place today and tomorrow - and beyond if required - so officers can effectively react to any situation which may arise."

Glasgow City Council is working work with police to deal with any potential situation.

Plans have also been drawn up to ensure officers have a visible presence at polling stations.

A Police Scotland source said: "We are expecting an exceptionally high turnout - significantly more people voting than in a General Election."

The operation comes just weeks after the force took on the biggest security operation in Scotland's history for the Commonwealth Games.

rebecca.gray@eveningtimes.co.uk