Billy Kay

Acclaimed writer and broadcaster Billy Kay was born in Galston, Ayrshire in 1951, and educated at the local High School, Kilmarnock Academy and Edinburgh University. He began doing a degree in Modern Languages - he speaks French, German and Portuguese - but his interest in Scottish literature led him to take an MA degree with Honours in English Language and Literature. He graduated in 1974, spent a year travelling round the world, and obtained a teaching qualification at Moray House College of Education.
He has published books on the Scots language, poetry and short stories. He produces radio plays, as well as writing and narrating his own works for television and radio. His production company Odyssey has won a clutch of awards all over the globe.
Billy is in big demand on the lecture circuit to speak on an eclectic range of topics such as Burns, wine production, travel, mining, textiles, Dundee, and Scotland in general.
Billy is passionate about the history and heritage of the Scots language, and his first book on the subject, ‘The Mither Tongue’ was adapted as both a radio and television programme.
The awards keep coming; Billy has just been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of the West of Scotland.
The degree, awarded at a ceremony in Troon, is the latest accolade bestowed on Billy.
Professor Seamus McDaid, principal and vice Chancellor of University of the West of Scotland said in the Kilmarnock Standard “We are delighted to award Billy Kay with an honorary doctorate. He has made a significant contribution to Scottish culture and is a fitting recipient of this honour. "
I am sure the awards will keep on coming for “Oor Billy.” The Loudoun Valley is proud to be associated with this local literature intellect.

  I would recommend having a look at Billy's web site.