ROBERT BURNS and his close ties with Dumfries are being celebrated by staff at the town’s VisitScotland iCentre this month.
The visitor information hub, which is located just off Whitesands in the heart of the town, has been transformed to coincide with Burns Night on January 25.
Burns spent the last years of his short life living in Dumfries where he wrote some of his best-known poems. There are many sites and locations associated with his life and works in the town, which staff have brought to life in a dedicated video trail. Staff from the iCentre originally created the film during lockdown last year. It has already proved popular and the team is hoping to encourage locals and visitors to pop into the iCentre as they embark on the walking trail.
A display, featuring several items donated by Dumfries Museum, is also now on show for visitors to the iCentre. It features replica items – including a candlestick holder and inkwell and quills – which Burns would have used during his time in the town. The collection also includes Burns tartan, several books, a bust and commemorative plate.
Emma Blore, Visitor Services Advisor at Dumfries iCentre, said: “Once Christmas is over and January descends, our thoughts turn to Scotland’s Bard, and former Dumfries resident, Robert Burns.
“With support from Dumfries Museum, we have been able to put several items on display in our iCentre this year. There are several books that celebrate his life, as well as examples of Burns tartan and a bust. We even have some Robert Burns Lego on display.
“With more than 60 years’ experience between us, we are always happy to answer questions about Robert Burns and his many connections to Dumfries & Galloway and beyond.
“We know that due to current government restrictions, we are not able to celebrate Burns Night in the same way this year with many events not able to take place. There are still many ways to celebrate our National Bard – whether it is taking part in the Big Burns Supper online, other online events or going on The Burns Trail around town. Our iCentre is the starting point for The Burns Trail and we would encourage locals and visitors to pop into our iCentre, have a look at our display and explore the many connections Burns has to the town and wider region.”
