Campaigners fighting for the future of RAF Leuchars are seeking celebrity backing for the cause.
The threat of the axe hangs over the base as the government’s defence review investigates options for multi-million pound cutbacks.
With RAF Leuchars among the facilities rumoured to be in the firing line, an array of famous faces are being urged to show their support.
Speculation surrounding the front line base has intensified in recent weeks and a spirited campaign to keep it open has found favour among politicians of all shades.
Fife Council has also rallied behind the cause warning that closure could cost the economy £60 million and 2000 jobs.
Now celebrities including TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and musicians The Proclaimers are being asked to show their support.
Carroll Finnie, chairwoman of Leuchars Community Council and one of the most active campaigners fighting for the base, said, “We have decided to write to a number of high profile people in a bid to secure their backing for RAF Leuchars.
“It would be great to get the support of some celebrities as it would really help to show just how strong the feeling is.”
Both Lorraine Kelly and The Proclaimers have strong ties to the area, and Mrs Finnie insists any backing they can give would provide a great boost to campaigners.
“It would be really nice if they showed their support and we will just wait to see what happens.”Ex-pat backingMeanwhile, members of the public are continuing to rally behind the threatened base. Among those contacting The Courier are many ex-pats who described themselves as amazed on hearing of developments back home.
Originally from Tayport, John Ferguson now lives in Langley, Washington, in the United States.
“Closing RAF Leuchars would be a travesty,” he said. “Leuchars is in a strategic location to protect the UK… and millions of dollars have been spent in the last few years on improvements to the base.
“I am from Tayport and as a boy rode my bike to watch Meteors, Hunters, Javelins and Phantoms take off and land. It would be devastating to the local economy if Leuchars is closed.”
Mr Ferguson also thanked The Courier for highlighting the issue.
“I would hate to see Leuchars close and I am 6000 miles away. I can just imagine what the locals and the Scottish people think. Good luck with the Save Leuchars drive.”