Work to improve war memorial gardens nearing completion

More than £40,000 of work to upgrade the path around Kirkcaldy cenotaph and war memorial gardens is almost complete.

Broken and cracked footpaths have been made safe and secure along the main pedestrian access route between Kirkcaldy railway station and the town centre. The cenotaph has also been renovated. Neil Crooks, convener of Fife Council’s Kirkcaldy area committee, said: “The need for these improvements was raised by a number of people, including the British Legion, so I’m delighted that work is almost finished. “It’s looking great.” The Labour councillor said that “2018 marks 100 years since the end of the First World War”.

He continued: “In conjunction with Kirkcaldy’s four secondary schools, we’re planning special commemorations this year on Remembrance Sunday.

“It’s important we treat the cenotaph and gardens with respect at all times and this work compliments the sterling job done by parks staff all year round.” The British Legion has welcomed the work. Vice-chairman of the Kirkcaldy branch John Donovan said: “The Royal British Legion appreciates the strong partnership built up with Fife Council.

“We are delighted to see this investment and echo the praise given by Councillor Crooks to the parks department staff.

“We are in discussion about the cleaning of the cenotaph as the name plates are badly weathered and hope a solution can be implemented before Remembrance Sunday.”

From left: Roads operative William Millar, RBLS branch secretary Jim Paterson, Neil Crooks, John Donovan and roads operative Eddie Duncan.