Burns' suppers have been part of Scottish culture for about 200 years as a way of commemorating the country's most famous poet.

When Burns immortalised haggis in verse he created a link which is maintained to this day.

The famous ritual started in 1796, a few years after Burns' death. The basic format has remained unchanged. The assembled are asked to stand and receive the haggis, a piper leads the chef carrying the haggis while the guests do a slow handclap then recite Burns' To a Haggis. When the line "an cut you up wi' ready slight" is said it is cut and toasted with a glass of whiskey.

There will be lots more to help recreate a little bit of Scotland at The Stag, in Sevenoaks: a sumptious, four-course dinner of Scottish foods (including Bashed Neeps and Typsy Laird), a live band to dance to and traditional ballads.

Helen Shaw, who will be singing at the Stag's Burns' Night celebrations for the fourth year, said: "These songs are so atmospheric and express a range of emotions."

Jan 26, Burns' Night, Stag Theatre, London Road, Sevenoaks, 7.30pm, £29.95, 01732 450175.