May to host Burns Night celebration atNo10

Celebrating Burns Night in Downing Street is a sign of the “enduring Union” between Scotland and England, Prime Minister Theresa May said.

Mrs May is to host a traditional Burns Supper, with the event commemorating the life and work of Scottish poet Robert Burns.

Glasgow-based chef Gary Maclean, a previous winner of MasterChef: The Professionals, has been put in charge of cooking for the event, using a range of traditional Scottish produce for his menu.

Guests at the event will enjoy MacSweens haggis, Highland venison and the dessert which helped Mr Maclean win the MasterChef trophy – a chocolate pistachio Drambuie and raspberry shortbread, with Arran Dairies Cranachan ice-cream.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mrs May said: “Scotland is a greatly valued part of our United Kingdom and its contribution to the UK is immense – economically, socially, and culturally.

“And Robert Burns is a great example of that, as one of our finest poets, famous worldwide.

“I’m very much looking forward to this evening and the chance to celebrate a great poet, a great nation and an enduring Union.”

Mr Maclean said: “A Burns supper is an institution in Scottish life and it’s wonderful to be able to be part of such a celebration of the works of our national bard in Downing Street.”