The President of the World Burns Federation believes there is no possible way that Burns Cottage will close for good.

Irvine man Bill Nolan insists that the cottage is too iconic to lose.

An urgent appeal from the National Trust for Scotland has been launched for donations to save the tourist attraction before it is damaged beyond repair.

The campaign is aiming to raise £100,000 to rescue the 18th century cottage where Robert Burns was born.

The news comes on the 260th anniversary of his birth but the trust explains that centuries of tough Scottish weather have taken their toll on the building and it now requires specialist attention.

Bill Nolan, however, believes that closure is not even an option.

He said: “I don’t think it is a remote possibility that the birthplace of Robert Burns would shut down for good. I think it is absolute nonsense.

“I think it is a terrible presumptive statement and I don’t think anyone would allow that to happen.”

He continued: “The Burns movement is massive. He is the only international icon that Scotland has and the Scottish Government wouldn’t allow this to happen.

“I know the Burns Federation wouldn’t take that stance. You have two Burns clubs, one in Alloway and one in Ayr.”

The National Trust is hoping lovers of Scotland’s Bard will dig deep to help save the landmark.

Caroline Smith, Operations Manager at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, said: “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.”