On March 2 1316, Robert II, the first monarch of the House of Stewart, was born at Renfrew.

He was the son of Marjorie Bruce, daughter of Robert the Bruce, and Walter, High Steward of Scotland. Robert acted as regent three times during the reign of his uncle, David II, and acceded to the throne in 1371. He died in 1390 and was succeeded by his son Robert III.

On this day in 1873, Robert Buchanan, the Scottish philosopher, poet and playwright, died. Buchanan was Professor of Logic at Glasgow University for more than 40 years. He is also known as the author of Tragic Dramas from Scottish History.

Today's recipe: a fruity Welsh cake best served with afternoon tea. Bara brith.