IT WILL not have escaped the attention of visitors and townsfolk that Arbroath Abbey lacks the soulful chants of monks.

This may not be a problem for the long abandoned cloisters, but on April 6 there is a real need for their presence within the famous sandstone walls. Arbroath Abbey Timethemes is rehearsing its commemorative play The Scribe’s Tale.

This forms the centrepiece of the Angus Tartan Week celebrations, but is short of monks to complete the picture.

Show director Fiona Kerr said, “Our re-enactment this year calls for several scenes with large numbers of monks, more than we normally have, and we really need a few more people to swell the numbers.”

She continued, “We are not looking for people with acting experience, so don’t let that put you off—just enthusiasm is required!

“All training and costumes are provided except sandals, which we prefer individuals to provide for themselves.”

Rehearsals for the re-enactment are taking place on Sundays from 2pm for around hour at the upper Masonic Hall in West Newgate, and anyone who is interested would be made welcome.

The Arbroath Abbey Timethemes chairman Dr Richard Irvine added, “We hope to make Tartan Week in Angus something extra special in this year of the Homecoming.

“The focus of the week’s activities will undoubtedly be the celebrations on the April 6 at Arbroath Abbey to mark the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath upon that day in 1320.”

The Timethemes event takes place on the forecourt of the abbey from 1.20pm. This public event is free and is expected to draw a large crowd in addition to civic dignities and the media.