A north man has revealed he pre-planned the fiery on screen defence of the Union which has made him an internet sensation.
Nigel Kirk-Hanlin – a self-proclaimed “passionate Highlander” – became an online hit after an appearance on BBC’s Question Time.
The Nairn man did not so much ask a question of the panel as issue a war cry.
Raising his arm in the air he declared he would give his blood for the cause.
Kilt-wearing Mr Kirk-Hanlin told the audience: “I was born in Inverness, I’m a passionate Highlander and I love Scotland.
“I will take a stand to keep the United Kingdom together.
“I will give my life for my country as my grandfather did in the First World War and his brother Charlie.
“Highland regiment British Army, and I’m British forever.
“We will never, never change. We will keep our union together, in the name of Jesus.”
His observation drew a smattering of polite applause from the audience, but he got a far bigger response from internet observers – including more than 2,500 views at www.pressandjournal.co.uk.
His style of oratory drew comparisons with Dr Ian Paisley and Mel Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace in Braveheart by social media commentators.
But the Better Together supporter said he was largely unaware of his new found fame.
He said: “I don’t have much to do with the internet, my wife deals with that kind of thing.
“I just thought to myself here’s the best opportunity I will have to stand up in defence of the Union.
“I had a good idea of what I was going to say before I did it.
“I had to say my piece and I would do it again if given the opportunity.”
The portrait painter has previously organised a pro-Union rally in Nairn, where he performed a specially written song after handing out lyric sheets to the audience of 10 which his event attracted.
The Question Time show was held at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness with a panel made up for the first time of non-politicians.
Guests included former Scotland rugby international Scott Hastings, journalist Joan Burnie, singer Ricky Ross and Orion Group boss Alan Savage.