Oor Wullie, the famous spiky-haired DC Thomson cartoon character, will soon be taking part in an educational project to help inform children about the Scots language. Aimed at children aged 5-10, the project is a joint venture between the National Library of Scotland and publisher DC Thomson, with advice and input from the Scots Language Centre and Scottish Language Dictionaries.

The idea behind the project is that this well known Scots-speaking character who has appeared since 1936 - will provide assistance and materials (via a website) to both teachers and pupils learning the language.

Commenting in the press (Sunday Post) National Library of Scotland Education Officer Alice Heywood said The rascally-nature of Oor Wullie is a lot of fun, and although hes probably better known by parents and grandparents, we are finding that children are very engaged by the character. It is hoped that this will enable children to pick up Scots, and language skills generally, as a direct result of a positive and pleasant learning environment.

Also commenting on the project Scots Language Centre director Michael Hance said: I think it is a fantastic project that will really help to introduce Scots to young people...Comic strips are an excellent way of presenting Scots, and I think it will really boost participation in the language.  Included in the website will be puzzles, translation exercises, a gallery of comic strips, activity and information packs which can be downloaded, and log-on areas specific to teachers and/or pupils. The site is due to be launched later this year.