MOUNTAIN TENSIONS

MONARCH of the Glen's handsome laird Archie is to leave his new wife Lexie heartbroken - to go "soul searching" in Tibet.

The dashing young laird, played by Alastair Mackenzie, packs his bags and leaves Glenbogle to "find himself" in the Himalayas.

Archie's sudden departure rocks the Highland village and leaves sexy Lexie, played by Dawn Steele, utterly devastated.

"Lexie has barely settled into life as lady of the manor when Archie drops the bombshell that he's had enough of life in Glenbogle and is leaving," said an insider.

"Lexie's world comes crashing down around her and she is left completely heartbroken.

"Archie's sudden decision proves he's not quite the squeaky clean laird everyone makes him out to be."

The shock departure will stun millions of viewers across the world who tune into the drama.

The romance between Archie and his housekeeper Lexie has been one of the main story-lines since the series began five years ago.

The new script surprise follows the revelation that Alastair Mackenzie's is to quit the hit BBC series.

Alastair, who is currently starring in new movie The Last Great Wilderness, said recently: "The decision to leave Monarch Of The Glen was one which I haven't taken lightly. After a great deal of thought, I have decided to move on.

"It goes without saying that I'll be sad to say farewell to the cast and crew who have all become friends over the last five years... but I feel the time is right."

"Archie" arrived in Glenbogle after leaving London for the peace and tranquillity of the family manor.

He was left reeling when his girlfriend Katrina dumped him - but made him realise that feisty Lexie was his true love.

Lexie, the city-born housekeeper, finally captured Archie's heart and the pair announced they were getting married.

But the wedding plans hit a snag when Lexie realised Archie wanted a big Highland wedding, while she preferred a quiet affair.

They finally married in a romantic hillside ceremony with just the household and minister on hand.

They became the "dream couple" of Glenbogle, with Lexie finally moving out of the kitchen to take her place as lady of the manor.

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