Careless horse riders are being warned to stay in their stalls after being accused of desecrating a Fife war memorial.
Councillor Ross Vettraino has demanded action from Fife Council to prevent galloping ponies from tearing up the turf at the Memorial Park in Thornton.
Mr Vettraino has also claimed that the use of the popular park by riders also presents a serious risk of injury to its users and has called on the council to address the problem.
“The park is a war memorial and is maintained in memory of those who gave their lives in service of their country,” he said.
“Discussions with the police has revealed that there is little that can be done in terms of prosecuting the irresponsibility in terms of a criminal offence.
“It is difficult to conceive such wanton irresponsibility, which should not be tolerated under any circumstances and which amounts to desecration of a war memorial.
“There is also the potential of injury, caused by galloping horses, to those who legitimately use the park.
“I will be pressing the council, on behalf of the community that it serves, to take firm action without delay.”
Opened by Sir Ralph Anstruther in September 1921, the park remains a huge part of community life in Thornton.
Home to Thornton’s war memorial, the park itself effectively became a memorial following a decision by Fife Council last year to designate the site as a Centenary Field, part of a nationwide initiative to mark 100 years since the start of the First World War.
It means that the local authority has vowed not to allow any development to take place there, or to sell, lease or dispose of the areas without the consent of the charities behind the project.
Methil’s Memorial Park has also been earmarked for similar status.
Kevin Jolicoeur, Fife Council area officer, has called on concerned visitors to report any dangerous activity involving horses.
“The Land Reform Scotland Act 2003 allows horses freedom to access open spaces in towns,” he said.
“We’ve been out to look at the park and we’ll be contacting the resident who raised the concerns.
“I encourage anyone who witnesses damage in the park to contact us on 03451 55 00 00.