Following an incident of vandalism in the 12^th Century St Bridget’s Kirk, Historic Environment Scotland are calling for local residents to help to protect the nationally-important monument.

There have been a number of reported incidents of people congregating at the monument and engaging in anti-social behaviour, including graffiting the walls of the ruinous medieval church.

Richard Aitken of Historic Environment Scotland said: “Mindless vandalism like this is not acceptable and very sad, given the long history and significance of the monument. Damage to an ancient monument is actually a criminal offence.

“We know that many in the community are just as concerned about the defacement of this important piece of local and national heritage as we are, and we would encourage them to play their part by being extra vigilant in reporting any information they have relating to this type of behaviour.

“We are working with Police Scotland and Fife Council to ensure that this kind of behaviour is prevented from re-occurring, and an important monument protected for future generations.”