KING ROBERT the Bruce made his regal procession to the gates of Arbroath Abbey yesterday as the town’s Abbey Pageant Society marked the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Scottish Independence.

Around 50 authentically-costumed members of the society, complete with horses and colourful banners, proceeded along the length of the High Street to the abbey, where they performed their new production, The Scribe’s Tale.

The play told the dramatic story of the days leading up to the signing of the declaration exactly 687 years ago through the reminiscences of Brother Ralph—an old abbey scribe.

The story ended with a re-enactment of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath when, on April 6, 1320, the barons and earls of Scotland gathered in the presence of Robert the Bruce to sign and seal a collective letter to the Pope affirming their right to be a free and peaceable nation.

The event was attended by around 200 people, with many staying on after the play to enjoy the music of Stonehaven-based Celtic band The Trybe.