Community groups from across Fife got together at North Queensferry yesterday [Tuesday 8 May] to celebrate completing a giant spring clean of Fife’s coastline. More than 1,200 volunteers from 40 groups took part in the spring clean during April, picking up rubbish from beaches and shorelines all the way from Culross to Wormit. Their efforts to tackle the problems of illegal dumping and littering will help protect the region’s wildlife and make sure our greatest asset is looking its best to attract lots of local people and visitors.

The event this morning recognised the contribution made by all the community groups that took part, including schools, Community Councils, Scout troops and Community Payback teams. In total 13.8 tonnes of rubbish was collected during the month-long campaign, equivalent to 14 small cars, or the annual waste of 11.4 households.

The ‘Let’s Boast about our Clean Coast’ campaign was organised by Fife Council’s Environmental Enforcement team to coincide with Keep Scotland Beautiful’s National Spring Clean Campaign.

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful who attended the event in North Queensferry today, said: “Fife has set an example for the rest of Scotland to follow - taking responsibility for an important resource which is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Keep Scotland Beautiful would like to thank all involved in this tremendous effort, and encourage everyone to do their bit to clean up their favourite part of Scotland. National Spring Clean runs until 31 May and you can register to take part at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/springclean”.

Simon Phillips from Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, who manage and maintain Fife Coastal Path, added: “We have dedicated Rangers and staff who maintain the path and carry out regular litter picks, but as a small organisation, we are always extremely grateful to any groups who help us with this important job. It’s thanks to support from local communities that Fife’s coastal path remains the best example of its kind in Scotland.”