Video: Sam Heughan brings Robert Burns poetry to life

OUTLANDER star Sam Heughan has lent his voice for two special Burns Night poetry recitals to help honour Scotland’s most famous poet.

Heughan, best known for his role in the Golden Globe nominated series Outlander, has recorded two of the Bard’s most well known poems ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ and ‘Red, Red Rose’.

The first recording was released this week and the second will be revealed on Burns Night - Monday 25 January.

Both are part of a Scottish Government campaign to honour Robert Burns around the world.

As well as the poetry recitals by Heughan, the government is encouraging fans from across the world to take a selfie with a Burns statue or a Burns-related item.

After Queen Victoria and Christopher Columbus, there are more Burns statues in the world than of any other non-religious figure.

The selfie, or “Burnsie,” can also include a Burns bust, a painting, book of poems, or even a traditional Burns Night supper of haggis, “neeps” and “tatties” or anything that symbolises the great poet.

These “Burnsies” will be collated into a massive mosaic image of Robert Burns and will be shared on the About Scotland social media channels and www.scotland.org website on Burns Night.

Robert Burns fans can submit their “Burnsie” until midnight on January 24.

Cabinet secretary for culture, Europe and external affairs, Fiona Hyslop, said: “Robert Burns’ words are recognized around the world and his poetry, writing and songs continue to be enjoyed by millions. Burns Night is a great opportunity to celebrate Scotland’s Bard and to enjoy Scotland’s poetry, music and wider culture.”

More information about the campaign can be found here: http://www.scotland.org/whats-on/burns-night/