Carnoustie residents are being invited to follow in the Fairy Steps of generations of locals.
For countless families, the right-of-way was a favourite path between the hamlet of Panbride and Muirdrum village.
But it was lost to the passage of time as the creation of the A92 dual carriageway cut through the heart of it.
A bridge over the Monikie Burn fell into disrepair, leaving much of the route largely inaccessible.
It became overgrown and hidden from view.
However, a band of local volunteers embarked on a journey to bring it back to use.
They likened the task to the magical world in the classic children’s novel, The Secret Garden.
Friends of the Fairy Steps formed in 2018
On Sunday, the Friends of the Fairy Steps celebrated the re-opening of the route.
Volunteer and Carnoustie councillor David Cheape said: “Its place in local history meant it has always been something I wanted to see reinstated.
“That journey started following the 2018 Open Championship here at Carnoustie.
“The R&A awarded legacy grants to four projects, one of which was the reinstatement of the Fairy Steps thanks to an application made by Libby McAinsh.
“Of course, Covid and lockdown interrupted any planning. But after that I put the call out for interested local residents to come forward to form an organising committee.”
Under the leadership of Alec Potter, a group of six volunteers set about the restoration project.
Additional funding came from Carnoustie Golf Links Community Benefits Fund, the National Lottery and local charities including The Haven and For Carnoustie.
“The path was rerouted by agreement with Andrew Gray, the local landowner, who also generously donated a further smaller bridge over the burn at a second crossing point,” added David.
“We really must acknowledge Andrew’s help and cooperation over the last two or three years.
“Without his willingness and understanding, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
Local firms involved in Fairy Steps project
“Outwith the committee, most building and refurbishment works have been completed by Angus firms.
“Carnoustie’s Gilbert Groundworks reformed the steps themselves. Mike Keith completed all the fencing, East Coast Peter Engineering provided several designs for, and then building the replacement bridge so fully that it’s built to last.
“And Grantscape created what we are now calling the Fairy Stairs. These allow access to the final part of the walk from the Muirdrum end.”
The group praised the “great help” of others, including Nige Riddoch, Bob Thompson, Willie Carle and Tommy Mitchell, Carnoustie Men’s Shed, Alec Edwards and Colourful Carnoustie.
David added: “Many made a contribution to get us where we are today, but Alec Potter and Steve McFarlane have gone up and beyond in the physical works undertaken.
“The other members of the committee, Libby, Pamela Manley, Lesley Marr and myself struggled to keep up with them.
“Membership of the Friends of the Fairy Steps has grown.
“We now have over 1,200 members on our Facebook page and several volunteers regularly get involved in keeping the route tidy.
“We will continue to add additional features along the route, but the bulk of the project is complete.
“The Fairy Steps should now be accessible for generations to come.
“This is a community path – enjoy it and care for it.”
Conversation