MORE events are likely to be added to the schedule for the music and culture festival Aberbrothock 700, according to chief organiser Eddie Cairney.

Speaking to The National, Cairney, 67, told of his attempt to create a "pub fringe" series of music and drama performances during the festival which marks the 700th anniversary of Scotland’s own Declaration of Independence signed at Arbroath Abbey in April, 1320.

From April 3 to April 6 next year Aberbrothock 700 – the title comes from the ancient name of Arbroath – will see the festival feature music and marching with the All Under One Banner march scheduled for Saturday, April 4, and the People’s Procession taking place the following day at 11am, The highlight of Monday, April 6 will be the Declaration 700 Concert in Webster Theatre.with music and drama to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath.

We have been asked to make it clear that Aberbrothock 700 is an addition to the Arbroath 2020 events that are taking place over six months next year.

Cairney, who is well known for his appearances at many pro-independence events said: “I make no bones about the festival being a wee bit political, because how can you celebrate the 700th anniversary of the declaration and not be political?

“From small beginnings, we are seeing this event grow and I hope that it will become annual.

“I would also like to see April 6 become a national celebration of our nation, and maybe even a national holiday.”