Irn Bru is as synonymous with Scotland as Nessie, whisky and shortbread. It has been around since 1901 and is known for its funny and sometimes controversial adverts. Here we take a look at Irn Bru through the years, from its original name to becoming Irn Bru on 18 July 1946 and gearing Scotland up for the 2024 Euros.
13. Falkirk mural
In 2015 an online petition looking to raise support for the restoration of Falkirk’s A.G Barr mural gathered hundreds of signatures. The change.org petition referred to a painting on the gable end of a building next to the former A.G Barr factory on Cockburn Street - marking the town’s 126 year history with the soft drink company, famous for creating the ‘other national drink’ Irn-Bru. The mural was covered up in the mid-1990s, with a billboard currently covering the original site. Photo: Scotdrone / SWNS
14. Famous fans
US congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tried Irn Bru for the first time during COP26 and apparently enjoyed it. Line of Duty star Martin Compston is a fan and has introduced it to co-stars. Billy Connolly also loves Irn Bru and penned a song thanking Mr and Mrs Barr for ‘saving my life on so many Sunday mornings’ on his 1975 album Cop Yer Whack for This. Photo: TSPL
15. Irn Bru carnival
This popular carnival, which takes place in December, has been around since 1919 when it was created to lift people’s spirits after World War 1. Photo: TSPL
16. Longevity claims
Elise McAllister, who turned 106 in 2020, said the secret to her long life was a can of Irn Bru a day. Photo: SWNS