Hundreds of people have signed a petition against the shock dismissal of a respected education officer at St Andrews Botanic Garden.
Nikki MacDonald was sacked from the popular attraction where she was regarded as the driving force behind its education programme.
A protest was held by some of her colleagues outside the garden and more than 600 people have put their name to the petition urging St Andrews Botanic Garden Trust to reinstate her.
Colleague Yvonne McKie said: “We hope the petition demonstrates the strength of support for Nikki MacDonald and for the trust to reconsider its actions.
“Nikki has been an incredible asset to the garden. Questions need to be asked as to how this has happened.”
Nikki was dismissed last September, allegedly on the grounds of misconduct for asking colleagues for professionals references after a capability meeting was ‘sprung’ on her.
Education tutors and volunteers said the petition to bring her back was the latest in a series of attempts to highlight what they termed unsatisfactory management practices.
Nikki’s departure, they said, had been devastating for education, with the programme for visiting schools and adult and youth initiatives she coordinated collapsing.
St Andrews Botanic Garden Trust, which took over the running of the garden from Fife Council in 2015 said: “In the interests of confidentiality, the board and management team will not discuss matters relating to any member of staff, past or present, but strongly refutes the allegations recently made by a former employee.
“Our efforts continue to be focused on the ongoing development of St Andrews Botanic Garden which now attracts around 35,000 visitors each year, cementing its reputation as one of St Andrews’ most popular visitor attractions, as well as a garden of national horticultural significance.
“As a result of this ongoing success and stability St Andrews Botanic Garden has been able to increase employee numbers from seven to 12 and has seen volunteer numbers and hours contributed increase significantly over the past three years.
“The trust has also partnered with additional local community groups who are now co-located in the garden and with whom the trust have an excellent working relationship.”
