Lambeg Drums are about to get a real thumping.

A booklet that aims to highlight the processes and skills involved in the manufacture of one of NI's most iconic instruments is being launched.

'The Ulster-Scot Lambeg - Creating Ulster's unique traditional instrument' will provide some insight to the skills involved from the selection of suitable timber through to the decoration of the finished instrument.

The book documents each step of the manufacturing process, with detailed pictures and descriptions throughout.

The project was primarily funded by the Arts Council NI, and also by the Ulster Scots Agency.

The main aim of the project has been to develop a free educational resource, which can be distributed among schools, libraries and community groups.

The booklet gets a high level fillip when Stormont Executive Minister Nelson McCausland lends his support this week, (Thursday 3rd September) when the equally historic location of the Meter House, at the Gasworks in south Belfast will be used to thump out the message of the traditional acoustic instrument.

He will be joined by Damian Smyth, who, speaking earlier on behalf of the Arts Council for Northern Ireland, said they were delighted to have been involved: "The ongoing and developing relationship between our two organisations is, for us, an invaluable link to the cultural traditions of the Ulster-Scots Community.

"The Lambeg Drum is synonymous with Northern Ireland and this instrument and the accompanying publication are a great resource which can be used to explain to others the traditions, history and craft of drums and drum making," he said.

(BMcC/KMcA)