Exciting photos have emerged from the eagerly anticipated Sir Billy Connolly tribute show which is coming to Largs as part of a national tour this summer.

The National Theatre of Scotland is taking its 'Dear Billy' show across the country - with a seat saved at Barrfields Theatre on June 16 if the famous funnyman wants to drop in.

The play features stories from the general public about the Glaswegian, who made headline news when his sell-out show in Largs sparked a protest from radical preacher Pastor Jack Glass about its religious content - specifically the Big Yin's 'Crucifixion' routine.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Gary McNair in action as BillyGary McNair in action as Billy (Image: Eoin Carey)

The announcement of the national tour was made to mark the legendary comic's 80th birthday.

It has been described by Jackie Wylie, the National Theatre of Scotland's director, as a 'love letter' and an expression of what Sir Billy means to Scotland.

The official promo states: "There’s a guy. You know him. You know…big hair, wee beard, glasses, talks like that. You know? You know. The guy…The Big Yin.  

"Billy Connolly needs no introduction. He is a national treasure.  From the shipyards of the Clydeside to his trailblazing and extraordinary stage and movie exploits, he is woven into Scottish culture.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Playing it for laughs - Dear Billy in dress rehearsalPlaying it for laughs - Dear Billy in dress rehearsal (Image: Eoin Carey)

"Everyone has a Billy story.  

"An expert team of story gatherers has created a collection of these moving and hilarious tales. 

"Gary McNair, one of Scotland’s finest theatre makers, has turned these stories into a special show celebrating the Big Yin and what he means to us.

"Gary is hitting the road with a band, collecting more stories as they go, making every show different.     

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Trip down memory lane of laughter with Dear BillyTrip down memory lane of laughter with Dear Billy (Image: Eoin Carey i)

"Each one a unique chance to laugh, sing, and celebrate the man and the legend. "

The production is written and performed by Gary McNair and directed by Joe Douglas.

Thanks to Eoin Carey for the photos.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Prime storyteller - Billy Connolly captivated the nation when he broke on to the scene in 70s - and tribute show tells his storyPrime storyteller - Billy Connolly captivated the nation when he broke on to the scene in 70s - and tribute show tells his story (Image: Eoin Carey)