FANS of a time-travelling TV blockbuster filmed in Scotland have vented their frustration at not being able to watch it on home turf.

Outlander, starring Scots heart-throb Sam Heughan, received its US premiere on Saturday night, watched by millions.

But life-long fans of the hugely-popular Diana ­Gabaldon books had to make do with reading the reviews, with no definite plans for the drama to be screened in the UK.

The 16-episode series, which was filmed in the Highlands, Glasgow's Pollok Country Park, and Cumbernauld Glen, is being screened on US entertainment channel Starz. US viewers were also able to watch the pilot episode on the website.

Sony owns the film rights and will license the show to other countries individually but has not yet signed a deal to screen it in the UK.

Author Diana Gabaldon is encouraging fans to lobby broadcasting companies to screen the drama.

She said: "One of the Sony people explained to me that historically, most foreign countries wait until after a show has been out for at least one season, before deciding whether to buy it or not.

"However, this same person also noted that trend has been changing of late, and would not be ­surprised if foreign sales happened more quickly with Outlander, as there's so much interest in it."

Fans took to the official Facebook page to express their disappointment.

Fiona Wiltshire said: ­"Seriously?! People are nit-picking about the belt on Claire's dress and here I am sitting in Scotland...a mere 100 miles from where the action takes place and I can't watch it yet!!! Now that is something to ­complain about!!"

Veronica Wells said: "So sad it's not showing in the UK. I am hoping they will at least release a box set DVD here at some point."

Last week Scotland's tourism chiefs launched a map of Outlander locations so fans of the books and new TV series can follow in the footsteps of its characters.

The online guide highlights real locations featured in Gabaldon's first two Outlander novels as well as visitor attractions and historical sites.

The map is available at www.visitscotland.com/outlander.

caroline.wilson@eveningtimes.co.uk