Today Fife's First Outdoor Access Festival was given a boost with the announcement of funding from the Fife Events Strategy Group and Scottish Natural Heritage.

Cllr Marilyn Whitehead commented "I am delighted that the Fife Events Strategy Group and SNH have decided to help fund our unique event.  As Chair of the Festival and the Fife Access Forum I believe that the range of activities on offer over the Festival weekend will make one of the best in Scotland. We will now be able to give training to volunteers and promote the festival not just in Fife but throughout Scotland. This will be a showcase event for Fife's Outdoors and I should like to pay tribute to those people who have worked so hard to get to this point in only a few short months. We are extremely grateful for the support of Fife Council and SNH and we look forward to a great weekend of outdoor fun."

Fife Coast and Countryside Trust Marketing Officer Marta Reeves-Marr added "The festival is being supported by the Scottish Ramblers, Forth and Tay Disabled Ramblers, The Outdoor Education Team, Bums off Seats Walking Initiative, Lochore Meadows Country Park, Lochore Riding School and the British Horse Riding Society."

She also went on to say "that a total of 46 events will take place over the weekend which include,  4 disabled rambles, a pushchair walk for families which includes 'playing pooh sticks', a hike over the Lomond Hills Regional Park and a cycle through the diverse woods at Devilla Forest.  There is even an opportunity to enter an 18 strong team in Fife's first dragon boat racing event."

In addition to this, there will also be a chance for you to visit historic sites and standing stones, learn about our rural and coastal villages, and marvel in the area's natural beauty.  This is definitely your change to come along and experience Fife's outdoors for yourself.

The festival website,  which is also being launched this weekend,  will allow its users to browse the many events available and book on-line.

For more information on the festival visit www.fifeoutdooraccessfestival.co.uk