THE lack of available contractors led to a Cowdenbeath community stalwart repairing the World War One Memorial ahead of Fife Council.

The Times told you last year that specialist work was required after vandals damaged the site in Cowdenbeath just one day after Remembrance Sunday.

Wreaths placed to remember those who sacrificed their lives in war were ‘hurled’ around, with local residents also abused and those involved urinating in nearby gardens.

This followed an incident in April when four young people were arrested for damage to wreaths, and another case of vandalism in October when wheelie bins were taken to the memorial to be set alight.

Post-fire photos revealed charred pieces of the bins used at the base of the monument, with the fire causing more damage than had first been thought.

New wooden fencing had been installed along the boundary at the back of the war memorial for security, but Fife Council was unable to carry out the specialist repair required for the memorial itself, and the contract for the work was set to be put out to tender.

Nearly a year later, local resident Alex Haddow took it upon himself to act.

Explaining, Cowdenbeath councillor Darren Watt posted on social media: "Little over a year ago to the day, our town's WW1 Memorial was wilfully damaged by the disgraceful actions of several young people.

"A wheelie bin was taken up the stairs, thrust against the memorial and set ablaze causing considerable damage.

"Shamefully, a year has past and Fife Council has failed to repair. I am uncertain as to why there has been a such a lengthy delay, but it's simply unacceptable and local people are rightly angry and disappointed.

"Cowdenbeath's community stalwart Alex Haddow is a proud resident and each year, plays a significant role organising the town's Remembrance Sunday events.

"Alex has recently taken it upon himself to repair and restore the memorial to its original and glorious condition.

"Anybody who knows Alex will know he is a very humble man and doesn't do such things for accolades or recognition, however, it is only right he is acknowledged for once again going above and beyond.

"I understand his endeavours will be supported by local business Nicki's Memorials along with several friends and family.

"It is disgraceful that Alex has been forced to take matters into his own hands, but I personally want to thank him and those supporting for their selfless efforts, and I'm sure many others will do the same."

Alex Haddow and others have been thanked by the council for their actions.

Cowdenbeath Area Committee Convener Cllr Alex Campbell said unfortunately there had been delays in carrying out repairs to the war memorial due to the availability of contractors.

He added: "This is an important piece of the town's history and it's incredibly disappointing that it was damaged so thoughtlessly.

"We're sorry that repairs were delayed but it's fantastic that the community has come together to get this work done and we'd like to thank all involved."