Adoring Ian Rankin fans send good will messages on author’s 60th birthday

The best-selling Scottish author celebrated in the most characteristic way possible.

Internationally bestselling author Ian Rankin turned 60 today, prompting an outpouring of well-wishes from fans around the world.

The Edinburgh-based creator of the Rebus series of detective novels toasted the occasion with a socially-distant pint outside his favourite pub, The Oxford Bar.

Reacting to a photo of the author with his celebratory pint, fans on social media wished him a happy birthday.

“Happy birthday, Ian,” one fan posted, “Thanks for all the stories. I sincerely hope next year's pint is *inside* the pub.”

Best-selling author Matt Haig wrote “Happy Birthday Ian!” on Twitter, and stand up comedian Robin Ince posted a video message wishing Rankin all the best.

The occasion was also marked by the author’s publisher, Orion, which told followers: “Wishing a very happy birthday to the great Ian Rankin!

“International bestseller, author of countless classics, creator of the iconic John Rebus, champion of reading and supporter of so many fellow authors.

Edinburgh-based author Ian Rankin has turned 60.

“We raise a glass to you today.”

In a fitting tribute, one of Rankin’s biggest fans wrote: “To mark your birthday I have named the rescue hedgehog in our garden Rebus - he’s a prickly character.

“Happy Birthday from Rebus!”