Did you know that Robert Burns fathered at least 12 children with four different women before he died in 1796 at the age of 37?

As Burns Night approaches to celebrate the infamous Scottish poet, we uncovered a few other facts for you…

1. His most recognised work is Auld Lang Syne which is often song at Hogmany (New Year’s Eve) and is thought of as the unofficial Scottish national anthem.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Which way will Scotland vote?

2. The song is also recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as being one of the three most popular songs in the English language, following Happy Birthday and For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.

3. Auld Lang Syne can be heard in more than 40 Hollywood films such as Forrest Gump, Elf and Sex and the City.

4. My Heart’s in the Highlands was translated and adopted by the Chinese as a marching song during the Second World War.

5. The 16th US President, Abraham Lincoln, could recite much of his work by heart.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: ABRAHAM LINCOLN pic: free (30957428)

6. At Japanese pedestrian crossings, a rendition of Coming Through The Rye signifies that it is safe to cross.

7. The Soviet Union were the first to commemorate him on a stamp in 1956.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Robert Burns Statue in Ayr

8. There are more statues of Robert around the world than any other writer.