SOUTH Norwood residents voted for independence from Croydon but opted against an unlikely union with Scotland this week.
There were 268 votes cast in the unofficial referendum staged by the South Norwood Tourist Board, a week before the serious business kicks off north of the border.
The residents of SE25 backed the forming of its own state, with 143 voting for the area to become the People's Republic of South Norwood although it is understood Croydon Council is not playing ball.
The council is also unlikely to let South Norwood go without a fight as it contains such jewels in the crown as Selhurst Park and the Sensible Garden.
Some 85 voters turned out to support South Norwood councillor Jane Avis' Stay With Croydon campaign while only 40 fancied hogmanay at Stanley Halls this year by choosing the Unite with Scotland camp.
The People's Republic of South Norwood's new leader Paul Fearon declared September 12 a public holiday in the new 'state' from now on called Republic Day.
