KINGSEAT residents have raised concerns about vandalism and littering at Loch Fitty.

Local councillor Gavin Ellis said people camping out have lit fires and dumped rubbish in the water, while there are also complaints about off-road bikers tearing through the old opencast site near Kelty.

He said: “I was alerted to the issues that have been happening in and around Loch Fitty with groups camping up and leaving their litter, from food packaging to alcohol bottles and cans, while there have also been issues with the lifebuoy rings going missing.

"Our local community police have been excellent in trying to address the issues, however people need to take more pride in our countryside and take their rubbish home.

"Is it essential just now to be camping out? I don’t think it is."

Cllr Ellis said there were concerns over the large number of vehicles parking up at the entrance to Loch View Stables, making it difficult for people to access the stables.

And he said there have been complaints about off-road bikes being used at the St Ninians former opencast mine, the site was also recently vandalised.

Cllr Ellis said: “The issue with off-road bikes is one that, during the current restrictions, shouldn’t be happening.

"It's not essential and in an area popular with families and dog walkers, it's irresponsible.

"I would ask that anyone travelling by vehicle to the area takes notice of the issues surrounding parking at the stables entrance, as this is a working stables, and access is required as well as machinery moving around.

"Also please remember that parking up on the corners and the footpath is a hazard to other road users and pedestrians."

He said the Fife Council, Police Scotland and the landowners were aware of the problems and were working together to tackle them.

The council confirmed that their safer communities team will monitor the situation and liaise with Police Scotland if necessary.