A dynamic Angus population has taken on board the task of looking forward and creating a more diverse and balanced economy. This is reflected in the mix of service and manufacturing industries now thriving in Angus towns.

On the coast, the handsome burgh of Montrose is an important commercial port and oil support base, while inland Forfar although traditionally a market town, has become an important textile centre, and is the administrative centre for local government in Angus.

Tourism has also seen a boom in Angus with golfing meccas Carnoustie and Monifieth attracting lovers of the sport from all over the world - indeed Carnoustie is gearing up to host the 2007 Open Golf Championships.

Although a long-established holiday resort, nowadays bustling Arbroath, the largest town in Angus has a strong industrial base with fish and food processing and engineering forming the backbone of the economy.

Known as the 'Gateway to the Glens', the warmth of the red sandstone of Kirriemuir, is reflected in the welcome to the increasing amount of tourists who call into the town, while in the north-east the Cathedral City of Brechin is famous for its ancient round tower - one of only two in Scotland - and home to Pictavia, a fascinating visitor experience offering an interactive journey through Angus' Pictish past.