Scots Makar's poetry given away

Edwin Morgan being read to by school pupils

Thousands of books will be given away during a 24-hour period to encourage more people to read the poetry of Scots Makar Edwin Morgan.

The Big City Read began at a minute past midnight and is part of the Aye Write Book Festival.

Fifteen thousand free copies of the book, From Saturn to Glasgow - Fifty Favourite Poems by Edwin Morgan, will be given out across Glasgow.

Readings will take place throughout the day at the Gallery of Modern Art.

Karen Cunningham, the director of Aye Write, said: "The thought of reading Edwin's work as part of the Big City Read has inspired so many people.

The distribution of the book is an inspired gesture which will be welcomed by Glaswegians Linda Fabiani Culture Minister

"From firefighters to taxi drivers, street-sweepers to schoolchildren, we've already had a massive response from the citizens of Glasgow.

"Edwin Morgan is a living legend and what better way to celebrate his work than by encouraging a new audience to enjoy the Scots Makar's work on Burns Night."

The Makar described the initiative, as a "daft idea, but a good one".

Culture Minister Linda Fabiani, who will read some of Edwin's work as part of the event at GoMA, said: "I have personally enjoyed Edwin Morgan's poems for many years.

"I am delighted to take part in this event which celebrates the excellence of our national poet.

"The distribution of the book is an inspired gesture which will be welcomed by Glaswegians."

A number of celebrities and writers have agreed to drop in during the day and read their own favourite Edwin Morgan poem.

The event will encourage people in schools, libraries and workplaces to take some time to read out loud at least one of the poems.

Anyone can take part in the reading and receive a specially produced book.