AS a keen amateur student (some 70 years) of the life, works and philosophy of Robert Burns, I find it annoying when people who should know better credit our national bard with writing the poem/song Auld Lang Syne (“Appeal to rescue spot where Burns wrote Auld Lang Syne”, The Herald, November 28).

The author of the original verses is unknown. Robert Burns heard the song being sung by a poor man outside a public house. Burns memorised the lyrics, refined the words and music, and thankfully gave ‘his version’ to the world.

Amazingly this brief, chance encounter, between Burns and the unknown singer has undoubtedly enriched the lives of millions.

Dan Edgar, Rothesay, Isle of Bute.

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