Academics and Burns lovers from around the world have travelled to Dumfries to discuss the study the works of poet Robert Burns.
Burns spent the latter part of his life in or near Dumfries and, as a result, the town is the perfect backdrop to assess the importance of his work.
To mark the 250th Anniversary of the Bard’s birth, and as part of the Homecoming celebrations, Glasgow University’s Dumfries campus is opening its doors to scholars from all corners of the globe.
Scottish History professor Ted Cowan, from the Crichton Campus of the University of Glasgow which is located in the town, said: "Throughout the week we will be joined by academic scholars from as far afield as Canada and Australia as well as those closer to home from Europe and the UK itself.
"I am confident that the summer school will contribute to our understanding and appreciation of the Bard", he said.
The event will finish with the launch of a new post graduate M.Lit in Burns Studies under the auspices of the Burns Appreciation and Research in Dumfries (BARD) Inititative.
The programme will culminate with a variety of events including dancing and live music in venues across Dumfries including an evening of songs in the Globe Inn which was one of Burns’ favourite establishments.
The 5 day summer school runs until 25 July and large numbers of people are expected to flock to the event.
