Today in 1951 saw the birth of rugby player Andy Irvine.

He played as full back at national level between 1972 and 1982. During this time, he won 51 caps for Scotland, and on his retirement was Scotland's most capped player. He also won 9 caps for the British Lions and is regarded as one of the all-time greats of Scottish rugby.

On this day in 1745, Jacobite forces routed Hanoverian dragoons on the outskirts of Edinburgh in what was known as the Canter of Coltbrig. At the beginning of September Charles had entered Perth. He had then crossed the Forth unopposed at the Fords of Frew and, after passing through Stirling and Linlithgow, he arrived within a few miles of Edinburgh.

Today's recipe: Scots chef Clarissa Dickson Wright uses fresh damsons in her fabulous fruit tart.