Replacing three plaques prised from a war memorial in Milnathort will cost the community £7,500.
The bronze plates bearing the names of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in two world wars were cleaved from the monument last month.
Orwell War Memorial was targeted just hours after fences were taken down following a £13,000 refurbishment. Two men are facing charges in connection with the theft.
Milnathort in Bloom has launched an appeal for donations.
Secretary Graeme Stewart said: “Two of the three that were removed from the memorial will have to be recast as they are too badly damaged to be repaired. Similarly, the one still on the memorial will have to be removed and recast.
“One of the Second World War ones only had scratches and damaged fittings so it can be salvaged and remounted. The total cost for the replacement and repairs is estimated at £7,500.”
The council confirmed that it will support the group’s efforts to collect cash. The appeal is also backed by a young veteran from the area who lost comrades in Afghanistan.
Steven Reid is campaigning to force the courts to impose tougher sentences on metal thieves who desecrate war memorials. The 33-year-old who served in Afghanistan and Kosovo wants the Scottish Government to change the law.
Mr Reid, who is now a firefighter based in Perth, said: “The Scottish Government should be closely watching what has happened here in Milnathort and in other places where memorials have been desecrated.”
To donate to Milnathort in Bloom’s appeal, contact Graeme Stewart on 01577 864357.