Five Fife beaches have been granted the prestigious European Blue Flag award out of the seven given to Scotland this year, and they were accepted by the Provost of Fife, Frances Melville, at a ceremony at Burntisland.
The town has won a seaside award for 10 years in a row and this year is joined by Aberdour Silver Sands, Elie Ruby Bay (Woodhaven), Leven and St Andrews West Sands in gaining Blue Flag status.
It means people using the beaches can be assured of the highest possible water quality and excellent features, including the presence of lifeguards, first aid, access for the disabled and regular cleaning.
Provost Melville said, “For many centuries, our coastline has made important contributions to the quality of life in our local communities and is now a key component for the local tourist industry.
“Fife is committed to being a leading green council, improving local conditions for economic development and improving sport, leisure and cultural opportunities.
“Our magnificent award-winning beaches help deliver on these priorities.”
He added, “To win so many awards requires a great deal of dedicated hard work by many people and these accolades represent a marvellous achievement by our local communities and council services.”
Councillor Donald Macgregor, vice chairman of the council’s housing and communities committee, added, “This is a terrific achievement and fantastic that Fife continues to lead the way in winning these awards.
“There are some really innovative pieces of work happening along the coast that all contribute to delivering award-winning beaches year after year.
“Community groups are tireless in their efforts to help maintain their local beaches and campaigns including the beaches pledge, green dog walkers and ‘bag it and bin it’ have encouraged Fifers to commit to being responsible with litter when visiting the coast.
“In addition, the Community Service by Offenders Scheme (Community Payback), managed by social work, has led a team of offenders to clean up litter from many miles of some of Fife’s beaches, a good example of how offenders are paying something back to the local and wider communities of Fife.”