With suppers the traditional pastime for the night, there have been other events in and around Paisley to mark the occasion.

Capercaillie songbird Karen Matheson appeared at Paisley Abbey last Friday to a sell-out crowd.

A truly Scottish evening featured favourites from the man himself, as well as her own songs and traditional Gaelic ones.

Karen appeared alongside her band, which includes James Grant and Ewan Vernal.

Neil Bradley (52) from Paisley was in the audience, and praised Karen's "terrific voice".

He told The Extra: "She was excellent — the abbey was filled to capacity.

"The Glasgow Gaelic Choir was on first and it was excellent too. It also came on for the finale with Karen."

Mr Bradley also commended the venue: "The lighting in the abbey was very good. The roof inside was lit up by coloured lights — red changing to blue."

Then on Monday, locals gathered at Johnstone library to celebrate the life of the bard with an afternoon crammed with music, poetry and a quiz to push knowledge of Scotland to the limit.

Love songs, radical politics and cups of tea were the order of the day and enjoyed by all.

Abigail Morris (71) from Johnstone said it was "really interesting."

She told The Extra: "It was so nice to acknowledge the wonderful poetry and songs of Rabbie Burns, especially this year.

"When Scotland receives such a bad name sometimes, it's lovely to be reminded that we have lots to be proud of and that we are world-famous for Burns, who is still appreciated today."

Husband Brian (72) added: "It was a lovely afternoon. I've always been a fan of Burns and I'm glad he's getting so much publicity with homecoming year."

He joked: "And it's always nice when it comes with a wee cup of tea."