The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Warning after louts leave trail of broken glass across beach
Environmental volunteer group alerts public after mass damage to revamped area
Walkers have been warned to avoid part of one of Scotland’s most popular beaches after drunken party-goers left shattered glass in the dunes.
The Fife Coast and Countryside Trust (FCCT) has urged members of the public not to walk barefoot between paths eight and nine on St Andrews’ West Sands.
The newly-planted dunes, which had been transformed by volunteers, have also been damaged during alcoholfuelled gatherings on the beach.
More than 200 fir trees and shrubs were planted last year to try combat the effects of offshore erosion from high winds.
A statement from the group on Facebook said: “The West Sands dunes have been used irresponsibly for inappropriate and damaging ‘parties’ by some very heartless and irresponsible people.
“The damage to newly planted dunes which endangers the whole project and leads to some very saddened and disappointed volunteers is a demonstration of total disregard for community action and voluntary effort by thoughtless drinkers.
“However, the amount of broken and buried glass in the area is a real hazard.
“FCCT rangers have removed what they could find and we will go over the area between Access 8 and 9 again however please be aware there may be more glass out there.
“Indeed, drinkers have used many places along the dunes recently and we would suspect broken glass may be a hazard along the entire beach close by the dunes.
“Please help us and if you spot a bottle or piece of glass pick it up and dispose of in one of our bins.
“We are sorry to release information like this however we cannot protect the beach and dunes against such ignorance 24hrs/7 days a week.
“Please help and if you spot drinkers on the dunes or beach, call Police 101.”
The West Sands is a popular spot for walkers and holidaymakers and became internationally famous when it featured in the opening scenes of Oscar-winning film, Chariots of Fire.
A recreation of the run is held each year for local charities and has, so far, raised more than £25,000. This year’s run takes place on June 3.
“The amount of broken and buried glass in the area is a real hazard. FIFE COAST AND COUNTRYSIDE TRUST