World Whisky Day launched by Aberdeen student Blair Bowman Published duration 27 March 2012

image caption Blair Bowman hopes World Whisky Day could become an annual event

World Whisky Day is being celebrated thanks to a University of Aberdeen student.

Blair Bowman, 21, established what is believed to be the first ever such event as he saw that other drinks were recognised in this way.

His World Whisky Day website has already encouraged thousands of people to take part on Tuesday.

image caption People across the world, including Germany, have been taking part on Tuesday

Hispanic Studies student Mr Bowman, who grew up in Edinburgh, said 30 different countries were involved.

Among more than 150 planned international events is a bar in Kuala Lumpur holding its grand opening to coincide with World Whisky Day.

Hotels, restaurants and homes are also lined up to host events across the UK as well as in countries including Canada, Russia and Australia.

Mr Bowman explained: "I'm hoping that it allows more people to become interested in whisky and could also boost tourism for Scotland.

"Whisky is booming right now, all over the world. I can't think of a better way to celebrate this famous Scottish export.

"I've had people from all over the world get in touch with me saying they are doing something where they are."

He aims to make it an annual event.

Do you have pictures of a World Whisky Day event? Send them to the BBC Scotland news website at newsonlinescotland@bbc.co.uk

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