KIDS are having a great summer thanks to four play schemes run by Fife's childcare services.

More than 100 children are getting to play and go on outings to local beaches, museums, theatres and parks.

As well as this, the schemes also provide a source of food for the most vulnerable children in the community. To attend the play scheme, children have to have been referred by their headteacher, family support worker or Fife Gingerbread.

The schemes have been funded by the Cowdenbeath and South West Fife area committees via their Welfare Reform budgets.

They run three days every week of the holidays from: Cardenden Primary School (covering Auchterderran, Bowhill, Cardenden); Cowdenbeath Primary School; St Kenneth's RC Primary school, Ballingry; and Oakley Campus (incorporating High Valleyfield).

Every child is given breakfast when they arrive and a healthy lunch and snacks during the day.

Fife Council’s leader, Councillor David Ross, and depute, Cllr Lesley Laird, went along to St Kenneth’s Primary School’s play scheme and saw first-hand how they are making a positive difference to the children.

Councillor Ross said: “Play is an important part of childhood and has a number of physical and mental health benefits for children. It’s a pleasure to come along and see how much the children are enjoying the summer play scheme.”

Councillor Laird added: “We’re investing in early years, working with families to give Fife’s children the best possible start in life. These schemes bring many benefits to the community, parents, carers and vulnerable families.”

Councillor Ross concluded: "These schemes are invaluable for children and families during the holiday period and we would like to thank the Fife businesses that currently help us deliver these schemes. There is so much more to do and we would very much welcome even more local Fife businesses coming in and working with us."