Extra staff will be posted at polling stations to deal with the expected high turnout at the independence referendum, the chief counting officer has announced.

The plan is among eight directions issued by Mary Pitcaithly before the vote on September 18.

She wants one polling clerk for every 800 voters and additional staff to move between stations to cope with "peaks and troughs" during the day.

Counting officers have been told to print 120% of the ballot papers required so there are spare papers in case any are destroyed or damaged.

Ms Pitcaithly said: "My focus is on ensuring that all elements of planning and delivery of the Scottish independence referendum are undertaken with the interests of the voter at the heart of all decisions.

"I believe these directions will inspire confidence and provide consistency in the process so that we can administer a successful referendum, with a result that everyone will trust as accurate."

The formal notice for the Scottish independence referendum will be issued on Wednesday August 13 and poll cards will be issued to voters on August 14 and 15.