JOHN Anderson, colourful boss of Clydesdale Bank in Southampton, slays the “great chieftain o’ the puddin’ race” in a dramatic Burns Night ceremony.

The proud Scotsman had the starring role at the Scottish-based but Australian-owned bank’s festivities, marking the 250th anniversary of the famous bard’s birth.

Held at the Madejski Stadium in Reading, the evening brought together 300 staff, customers and partners from Clydesdale’s network of ten Financial Solutions Centres in the south, which includes the office in Grosvenor Square, Southampton.

John said: “I enjoyed it. I’m a big fan of Burns. It’s not just a ritual for me, I’m genuinely passionate about him.”