New signs have been erected at the historic Wemyss Caves in a bid to protect them.
The signs aims to highlight the ancient caves’ importance and protect the site from anti-social behaviour.
They warn the sites is a scheduled monument and protected by law so it is an offence to damage it in any way.
Signs tell visits ground disturbance of any form, fires and use of metal detectors are prohibited.
The caves contain a unique collection of Pictish carvings, thought to be the largest concentration in Britain.
But these have become increasingly at risk from coastal erosion and vandalism.
Now, however, the Wemyss Caves Action Group has taken action by agreeing to install the new signs to help combat incidents of littering, graffiti and fire damage to the caves.
The action group consists of stakeholders including the Save Wemyss Ancient Caves Society, Fife Council, Scottish Coastal Archaeology and the Problem of Erosion (SCAPE), Historic Environment Scotland, Fife Coast and Countryside Trust and the Wemyss Estate.
The group is working together in an effort to protect the caves for future generations while making the most of their potential as a heritage site on the Fife Coast.
Plans are now under way to update the existing interpretation boards at the East Wemyss sea front car park which gives visitors information on the historic importance of the site.
SWACS vice chairperson Sue Hamstead said: “This first step we hope will inform visitors of the importance of the caves and deter inappropriate behaviour.
“We will follow up soon with new interpretation boards to replace the somewhat weather worn boards that are in place at present.”
The caves have been nominated to be listed as one of Scotland’s six hidden gems in a national competition by DigIt!2017 as part of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
Meanwhile, SWACS volunteers will be offering guided Super Saturday tours of the caves throughout July.
The tours start at 2pm from the East Wemyss sea front car park.
