PAY tribute to the great Scottish poet and join the Scots as they celebrate Burns Night on Wednesday, January 25.

The date marks the birthday of Robert Burns and people around the world will raise a glass to him on an evening bursting with traditions, dancing, music and merriment.

Of course, the main food of Burns Supper is a haggis, which is traditionally piped in, accompanied by neeps and tatties – turnips and potatoes. Perhaps you might wet the appetite with a cock-a-leekie soup and finish with a cranachan for dessert.

The evening would traditionally include the Selkirk Grace, address to the haggis a speech and toast to Burns, address to the lassies and reply from the lassies.

And, of course, it ends with a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne.

So join in the fun and raise a wee dram of whiskey to Robert Burns this week. Here are some events taking place in our area which you can enjoy...

Celebrate in Surrey

Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, is hosting a Burns Night celebration on Friday, January 27 at 7.30pm, starting in the atmospheric cellars, followed by dinner and Scottish dancing until midnight in the Conservatory Atrium and Garden Room. Tickets are £55 per person (£50 loyalty club members). Call 01306 742002.

Polesden Lacey National Trust estate, Great Bookham, is offering a special Scottish menu in the restaurant with Scottish items on sale in the shop, between Monday, January 23 and Sunday, January 29. On Saturday, January 28 and Sunday, January 29, the house is open for guided tours when you will be able to find out about the Scottish roots of Mrs Greville, who used to live there. Call 01372 452048.

Céilidh band Thingamajig play at Dorking Halls on Friday, January 27 at 12.10pm as part of the lunchtime recital series. Expect foot-tapping music, dances and songs from Scotland, England, Ireland and America. Tickets are £13.50 including lunch or £6.50 for the recital only. Call 01306 881717, www.dorkinghalls.co.uk.

Hartsfield Manor, Sandy Lane, Betchworth, is hosting a charity Burns Night in aid of Young Epilepsy on Friday, January 27 from 7pm. You'll be welcomed by a piper and during your evening enjoy a four-course Burns Night supper and traditional songs and poetry from soprano Sarah-Jane Dale and harpist Jean Kelly. Dancing follows with the D'Arcy Duo and a caller. Tickets are £39.95. Call 0844 980 2380 or email hartsfield@deverevenues.co.uk.

The Castle, Millers Lane, Outwood, is hosting a Burns Night meal featuring three courses on the evening of Wednesday, January 25. Choose from a selection of starters, including Scots broth and Scottish smoked salmon, enjoy a traditional haggis and finish with a dessert such as whiskey panacotta or cranachan. Price £18.95. Call 01342 842754.

The Yew Tree, Reigate Hill, Reigate, is offering whiskey lovers the chance to sample a wee dram at a whiskey tasting evening featuring four single malts and a meal, on Wednesday, January 25 at 7.30pm. Haggis will be on the menu. Tickets are £25 including whiskey and food. Call 01737 244944.