THERE were tears of joy as a memorial bench for a beloved Benarty dog was unveiled at Lochore Meadows.

James McShane's yellow labrador Danny was a local celebrity and his passing earlier in the year left a hole in the community.

Hundreds of tributes were left on Benarty Matters, the Facebook page that provided a platform for James and Danny to entertain others and bring smiles to faces.

An online fundraiser was launched by Derek Davidson after Danny's passing, with the bench at the entrance to Fairy Wood unveiled on Saturday.

It was an emotional moment for James and Isabell, with the pair praising the area's generosity.

James said: "Firstly, I'd like to thank everybody that turned up for the unveiling.

"It was very emotional for us.

"I'd also like to especially thank everybody that made this possible.

"Tom Kinnaird for letting us use his page; Ian Laing and Fife Council for permission to site it where it is; Ian Bruce and his team for their time and labour; and of course the two main men, Derek Davidson and John Robertson, for the fundraising and hard work too.

"And last but not least all you lovely people who donated or sent all your support and comfort to us.

"Danny was no better than anybody else's dog. But it was amazing the feedback we got from some daft pictures and speech bubbles.

"Danny was lucky to live in such a beautiful place.

"He loved either down the Meedies or up the hill. So the bench is in the perfect place.

"He was also lucky to live in a great community with brilliant people. All of you.

"From myself, Isabell and family, thank you. Your generosity and kindness will stay with us forever."