A MUCKHART whisky expert features in a podcast series that launched ahead of Burns Night to celebrate the poet’s enduring legacy.

Graeme Littlejohn – who is a former Alva Academy pupil and is deputy director at the Scotch Whisky Association - was invited to go on air in #TaeTheBard, which is available on Spotify and iTunes for listening.

The series of conversations were hosted by Dr Pauline Mackay, lecturer in Robert Burns studies at the University of Glasgow, who chatted with creatives and experts on how the poet’s influence on Scottish culture remains relevant today.

She said: “Burns’ legacy remains very much alive in today’s Scottish culture and in the five episodes of #TaeTheBard, we explore how Burns’ continues to influence and inspire in poetry, art, food, drink and song.

“The series offers people an opportunity to learn more about the Bard this Burns Night and learn more about what makes him so special to so many across the world.”

Mr Littlejohn features in episode three of the series, titled A toast like no other, which raises a glass to Scotland’s national drink.

On social media, he said it was great to join in alongside fellow guest Jaclyn McKie of Isle of Arran Distillers, who produce a range of Robert Burns whiskies.

Other contributors across the five episodes include singer and songwriter Mairi Campbell, lettering artist Craig Black and haggis expert James Macsween.