Presenter Dan Snow visited Stratford yesterday to raise support for the Let’s Stay Together campaign in the debate over Scottish independence.

He and fellow television historian Tom Holland organised an open letter signed by famous names from sport, film and literature, and is encouraging members of the public to add their names to it.

Scotland will hold a referendum next month on whether it wants to remain part of the UK or form a separate nation.

The letter makes it clear that although it is a decision for Scottish people to make, it will have a huge effect on the rest of the UK.

Dan said: “I don’t have a vote in the Scottish referendum but I certainly have a view and I really hope that our shared country stays together.

“That’s why I’ve brought together a list of people who represent the best of British and share that view. But more than the celebrities, this is the view of the majority of people in the rest of the UK.”

His visit to Stratford is part of a tour across the country, collecting signatures from members of the public who support the campaign.

“Newham is a place that absolutely epitomises what you can achieve when you work together, people from all different parts of the world coming together and providing an environment to live and to work in,” Dan added.

He was joined by the Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales, who was born and grew up in Scotland.

Sir Robin said: “I welcome his effort to ensure that our voice is heard in this debate about the future of Scotland, that affects all of us whether we have a vote or not.

“Scotland benefits from the stability and security provided by the UK and the historic ties are something we should celebrate and value.”

To sign the open letter, visit letsstaytogether.org.uk

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