Rival groups’ parade bids to be considered by councillors

Rival pro-independence groups are predicting a combined turnout of 25,000 people for two marches set to clash with the start of the main Arbroath 2020 celebration programme.

Councillors will today consider public procession applications from both the Scottish Independence Movement and All Under One Banner (AUOB) at a civic licensing committee meeting in Forfar.

The groups have issued a rallying call to the Angus town on a weekend which will feature the key celebration in the programme marking the 700th anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath’s signing.

Their marches are due to start an hour apart on Saturday April 4 and follow similar routes through the town.

AUOB have put a crowd estimate of 15,000 on the planned procession, which will leave Inchcape Park at noon and head along Arbroath High Street and past the abbey, finishing at Victoria Park.

The Scottish Independence Movement estimates a 10,000 turnout for its march.

Organiser Manny Singh has told councillors he plans to have more than 500 stewards in place.

The groups have previously clashed over the competing parades, with AUOB telling Mr Singh to “back off” with his bid.

Officials say a number of options are open to the committee, including vetoing the applications, or imposing conditions if they decide either or both of the parades can go ahead.

The marches are planned for the day before a re-enactment of the Declaration of Arbroath setting sail to the Pope in Avignon in 1320.