On this day in 1824, John Elder, the Scottish marine engineer and shipbuilder, was born.

Elder invented the marine compound steam engine which enabled ships to cut fuel consumption and made longer voyages possible without the need to refuel. Elder was also a noted philanthropist who cared deeply for his workforce, establishing and contributing to an accident fund at the shipyard. At his death, he was working on a scheme to found a school for his workers' children.

On 8 March 1899, Eric Linklater, the novelist and playright, was born. Although born in Wales, Linklater always considered himself an Orcadian, and commanded the Orkney garrison during the Second World War. Perhaps his greatest work is Magnus Merriman, a political satire based on his own unsuccesful campaign as a National Party of Scotland candidate.

Today's recipe: a family meal with a taste of North Africa. Moroccan style-chicken casserole.