An advance party of soldiers’ families from Germany arrived in Leuchars on Monday evening for a short visit to get a flavour of life in Fife before making a permanent move in the summer.
More than 800 soldiers and their families are due to arrive in Fife in the summer and the local community is gearing up to welcome their new neighbours.
Fife Council’s area education officer John McLaughlin has been responsible for organising the visit.
He said the 22 wives, partners and children are visiting local schools, including Balmullo, Guardbridge, and Leuchars primaries, plus Madras College, with children taking part in lessons and getting a taste of school life.
They also hope to explore the local area and everything it has to offer before a family ceilidh event on Thursday evening.
The group fly back to Germany on Friday.
Meanwhile, businesses in Leuchars say they are looking forward to army units arriving in the village and welcoming the boost the troops and their families will bring to the area.
As recently reported by The Courier, custom has been slow since the RAF left the base last year and Fife Council has been helping with support and advice over the last few months.
Fife Council depute leader Lesley Laird said: “While we are looking forward to the army arriving, we are aware that many local businesses are experiencing trading difficulties since the RAF left the base.
“I’ve written to the MoD and secretary of state for defence to ask that they continue to work with us and provide some assistance for businesses during this transition time.”
Fife Council and Business Gateway are working with local businesses and the wider community to promote a buy local campaign.
New leaflets have been produced and are being distributed throughout the area.
The council is also working with traders to make sure they receive any reliefs they are entitled to from non-domestic (business) rates.
Councillor Laird added: “Transition time was never going to be easy for the town.
“The community has worked hard to prepare but the reality of the situation is proving difficult for some.
“We’ll continue in our efforts to get in touch with any businesses experiencing problems, signpost to advice and highlight a range of potential funding help.”
Any business who has concerns or needs advice or support can also contact Business Gateway on 01592 857 848, who will be able to give help on a range of different topics to assist.
Leuchars will become home to the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, 2 Close Support Battalion of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and 110 Provost Company of the Royal Military Police.
Although the colour of the bases’ uniform will predominantly change from blue to green, it is intended that a skeleton RAF staff will remain at Leuchars to maintain a diversionary runway.
The formal handover of Leuchars to the army from the RAF is due to take place on March 31.