Ukraine crisis: Pro-Russians flock to Crimea vote
Supporters of Crimea's attempt to secede from Ukraine and join Russia have flocked to vote in a referendum denounced by Kiev and Western powers.
Polls closed at 18:00 GMT and officials hailed a "record" turnout. Preliminary results were expected within hours.
A vast majority of voters interviewed by journalists backed secession. Many opponents boycotted the vote.
Daniel Sandford reports.