LONDON (AFP) - British music legend David Bowie on Wednesday, Feb 19, 2014, urged Scotland to remain part of Britain during an acceptance speech at the annual Brit Awards ceremony.

The reclusive 67-year-old was not at London's O2 Arena to accept his award for British Male Solo Artist, but sent an acceptance message, read out by supermodel Kate Moss, saying "Scots, stay with us!".

The glam-rock mastermind became the oldest winner of an award, surpassing Welsh crooner Tom Jones, who received an honorary prize for his outstanding contribution to music in 2003, aged 62.

Polls show increasing support for a Yes vote in September's referendum, although the No vote remains ahead.

Scotland has enjoyed increased autonomy since a 1997 referendum on devolution, and now looks after its own education, health, environment and justice.

But the British Parliament in London still decides defence and foreign policy, and the Scottish National Party wants full independence.