A BUST of Robert Burns in the Birthplace Museum in Alloway is being used as one of two new hi-tech spots where people can donate to the National Trust - via contactless cards.

It is hoped that the ‘Tap the Past to Preserve the Future’ initiative will raise vital funds for the charity to support its valuable work protecting Scotland’s heritage for future generations, at a time when the volume of traditional cash donations is falling.

The bespoke creations have been weeks in the making, with the Robert Burns bust formed using the latest in 3D scanning technology to capture every detail of the original.

The makers worked closely with the Trust’s expert property and curatorial staff to create high quality replicas which are almost identical to the original pieces, but with a contactless card reader integrated. Visitors to the sites will be able tap the contactless logo on each object to donate a fixed amount of £2.

Simon Skinner, Chief Executive at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “It’s only through thesupport of our visitors, members and donors that our charity can help to protect Scotland’s natural and national treasures, like Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Fyvie Castle, for everyone to enjoy.

“Working closely with Bank of Scotland and Visa to install these artefacts means even more people can help support all we do.”

Ricky Diggins, Network Director at Bank of Scotland, added: “In 1786, Robert Burns composed a poem on the back of a Bank of Scotland note, so it is fantastic to see a recreation of him now helping to preserve treasured historical sites in Scotland.”