The humble cottage in Alloway where Robert Burns was born and where the first Burns Night Supper was held is at risk of being damaged beyond repair, it said.

An urgent £100,000 appeal has been launched to save the home.

The cottage was built in 1757 by Robert Burns’ father, William Burness, but centuries of Scottish winters have taken their toll with the roof, walls and chimney in desperate need of specialist attention.

Caroline Smith, operations manager at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, said: “At the back of the home the traditional thatched roof has developed significant tears and has worn away.

“Towards the front, moss is also beginning to grow, collecting rainwater and rotting the thatch underneath.

“The north-west gable is starting to crack, letting the wind and rain in and damaging the interior plasterwork.”

Ms Smith added: “Plans are in place to repair the wall at the end of the cottage, cracks along the walls and windows will be filled, the roof re-thatched and the outer walls re-limewashed, weatherproofing the cottage and protecting it for the future.

“Everything we do at the museum is for the love of Scotland.

“We are all hugely passionate about the life of Burns and sharing the stories of his life and work but we are asking for help to protect the legacy of Ayrshire’s most famous son.”

All images courtesy of National Trust for Scotland