Bottled water from a lake named after Sherlock Holmes’ author Arthur Conan Doyle could become a crucial source of income for an independent state, depending on the results of a referendum.

While Scotland is still umming and erring about whether to choose to become an independent nation, South Norwood people are preparing to go to the (online) polls.

They will have three options to choose from – independence, a union with Scotland or keep the status quo – with early indications suggesting a People’s Republic of South Norwood could be declared when the result is announced on Friday.

Ian Bone, one of founders of the referendum organisers the South Norwood Tourist Board, said: “Judging by the turnout we had at a debate last week there is a strong push for an independent nation, much stronger than going with Scotland or staying with Croydon.

“I think generally people feel that the area is neglected and I think this will be the main force behind the People’s Republic of South Norwood winning the vote.

“People say what have we got compared to Scotland and we could start bottling water from Conan’s lake as an answer to Scotland’s oil.”

Mr Bone, who was once named the most dangerous man in Britain by the Sunday People newspaper, admitted not all the details of a people’s republic have been worked out yet.

He said: “We haven’t ironed out all the details but neither have the people in Scotland.”

But then he admitted: “Of course it won’t legally become a people’s republic but it will give an indicator of how people feel.”

The vote is open to everyone aged 16 and over, and there is no need to live in South Norwood to take part.

Anyone who wants to vote can go online and follow the link at southnorwoodtouristboard.com