Wemyss Caves to get gates

The Wemyss Caves in Fife are to be put behind bars this summer to deter vandalism at the site. Volunteers working to preserve the 1,500-year-old Pictish carvings within the caves find evidence of antisocial behaviour there every weekend and fear losing the carvings if the damage continues.

Mike Arrowsmith, chairman of the Save Wemyss Ancient Caves Society, said: “This decision has not been taken lightly.

“It comes after many years of managing the constant damaging impacts of a small minority of people using the caves.

“Every weekend over the summer months, we clear up and document evidence of bottles smashed against the cave walls, spray painted graffiti over the carvings, fires inside the caves and drug use.”

There are six ancient caves at East Wemyss, which are also under threat from coastal erosion.

The lockable gates, which will be installed at Jonathan’s Cave and Court Cave, which contain carvings, will remain open during the day.

Mr Arrowsmith added: “By closing them at night, we can protect the caves for future generations and create a safe and pleasant environment for local people and visitors to enjoy this priceless heritage.

“The Wemyss Caves are an invaluable asset and have enormous potential to generate income for the community as a visitor destination.

“But if we don’t take action now to secure the carvings, future generations in East Wemyss will lose out on their inheritance.”

The gates are being provided with money from a £30,224 grant from Historic Environment Scotland (HES).

Other funding comes from Fife Environment Trust.

Amy Eastwood, head of grants with HES, said: “The Wemyss Caves are an important part of Scotland’s heritage.

“And this project will help ensure the longterm preservation of the ancient carvings located inside.”

The protective grilles, which are being fabricated by Kirkcaldy-based contractors Legge Steel, incorporate Pictish symbols in their design.

Preparation work has begun on site with the gates being installed over the coming weeks.

VANDALISM: The gates, which will be locked at night, will protect the Pictish carvings.