FOOTBALLER David ­Beckham has added his voice to the campaign against Scottish independence, urging voters north of the Border not to throw away a bond that is "the envy of the world".

The former England captain said he was proud to have represented the UK as part of the team that secured the 2012 Olympics for London and then was "thrilled to watch us competing together against the world" at the Games.

"The achievement that gave me the most pride was to captain and play for my country," he said in an open letter, released by the Let's Stay Together campaign group.

"I saw that same pride and passion in every Scottish player and fan whenever we played each other.

"It was a common bond that I have always related to and admired.

"Representing the UK with our Olympic bid I felt that same pride and passion."