The Perthshire town’s History Bank Project this week unveiled ambitious plans to introduce the £300,000 tourist train, and hailed the announcement as “the first of its kind in Scotland”.

The HBP envisages using the vehicle to transport tourists and locals around a five-mile route, taking in sites of historic interest, tourist attractions and shops.

This is exactly what the Arbroath road train, bought at a cost of £65,000, has been doing since June 1995.

“I heard about the Pitlochry road train and while it is an excellent idea, it certainly can’t claim to be Scotland’s first,” said Councillor Angus today.

“Arbroath’s road train continues to be very popular with tourists and locals alike. Indeed this summer it was so busy that at peak times there wasn’t enough room for some people to get on.

“I welcome Pitlochry’s proposal and we at Angus Council would be happy to give advice or assist with their application in any way possible.

“We were very much the pathfinder authority in convincing the Department of Transport that such a vehicle should be on the public roads.”

The Arbroath road train is now garaged for the winter, but will be making a Yuletide appearance in Aberdeen again this year.

“It made its Aberdeen debut last Christmas and the city authority has asked for it back again this year,” confirmed Councillor Angus.

“The road train is certainly a valuable asset when it comes to local tourism. We would also remind organisations that it is available for hire to them.”