Robert Burns (25 January 1759 - 21 July 1796) (also known as Rabbie Burns, Scotland's favourite son, the Ploughman Poet, Robden of Solway Firth, the Bard of Ayrshire and in Scotland as simply The Bard) was a Scottish poet and a lyricist. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland, and is celebrated worldwide. Read more
Thousands of people have taken part in events to mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, Scotland's national bard. The celebrations were led by First Minister Alex Salmond. It also marked the launch of a year-long programme of events which the Scottish Government hopes will raise the country's profile.