First Minister John Swinney has urged voters across Scotland to back the SNP in today’s Scottish election, saying the country now stands “within touching distance” of securing what he described as a better future.

As polling stations opened across Scotland from 7am this morning, the SNP leader said voters have the chance to back action on the cost of living, reject Nigel Farage’s politics and support what he called “a fresh start with independence”.

John Swinney is expected to cast his own vote in Burrelton within the Perthshire North constituency during the day as parties make their final push to turnout supporters before polls close at 10pm.

The SNP leader said the election offered voters a direct choice between an SNP government focused on delivering policies and opposition parties he accused of simply trying to block progress.

“Today is Scotland’s opportunity to choose a better future by voting SNP for real action on the cost of living, to lock Nigel Farage out of power, and to secure a fresh start with independence.

“I urge people in every part of Scotland to unite behind the SNP to make it happen.”

The SNP has centred much of its campaign around cost of living measures, including proposals aimed at lowering food costs, expanding childcare support and reducing transport expenses.

The party has also pledged additional help for first time buyers as part of its wider economic message during the campaign.

“The SNP is the only party that has set out a positive vision for Scotland’s future and we are the only party with a serious plan to support people with the cost of living.

“We have set out our plans to bring down food costs, give families more support with the cost of childcare, lower the cost of your daily commute and provide more support for first time buyers.”

The First Minister also used his final election message to attack opposition parties, arguing they lacked a clear alternative vision for Scotland.

“The SNP wants to lower your bills but all the other parties want to do is stop us.

“They have no plan of their own and nothing to offer.

“They want you to vote for an opposition to stop things happening.

“I am asking people to vote for an SNP Government to get things done.”

The SNP enters election day aiming to secure a strong parliamentary majority, with independence once again sitting at the centre of the party’s long term political ambitions.

“By casting both votes for the SNP, Scotland can elect a strong majority SNP government that will always stand up for Scotland, prioritise the cost of living, and deliver that fresh start of independence that Scotland needs.

“That opportunity of a better future is now within touching distance.

“Let’s make it happen today by voting SNP.”

Voting is taking place across Scotland throughout the day, with results expected to begin emerging overnight and into tomorrow morning.