A “deliberate act of fire starting” took place at Lochore Meadows yesterday (Sunday, July 26).
It took place around 5am in the woods beside the visitor centre and playpark.
The fire was quickly put out, however CCTV footage shows four young people pushing a wheelie bin into the woods, before setting it on fire.
This is the third time the fire service have been called to the popular visitor attraction in the past few weeks.
Lochore Meadows Country Park’s Facebook page states: “Thanks to the swift response of park staff and the fire service, the fire was quickly extinguished, helping to prevent what could have been a far more serious incident.
“CCTV footage captured four young people pushing a large wheelie bin into the woods before setting it alight whilst also attempting to start two other fires in and around the storytelling seating area.
“We are incredibly disappointed that someone would deliberately attempt to start a wildfire considering the amount of news coverage, advice and warnings there has been locally and nationally.
“We have seen in the Cairngorms the devastating impact wildfires can have.
“In the last few weeks, we have had to call out the fire service three times to deal with fires and park staff deal with smaller issues on a daily basis including abandoned camps, BBQs and fire pits where often trees are cut to use as fuel.
“With the current dry weather we have been having, the risk of wildfire is still exceptionally high.
“It only takes a single spark for a fire to spread rapidly, with potentially devastating consequences for wildlife, habitats, neighbouring properties, and the safety of those responding to the incident.
“We urge everyone to act responsibly and remain vigilant when visiting our parks and open spaces. Deliberate or careless behaviour involving fire has no place in our community.
“The matter has been reported to the police and CCTV footage will be provided as part of their investigation.
“If you have any information that may assist, please call Police Scotland on 101.
“Finally, we would like to thank the Fire Service for their prompt response and professionalism, which prevented this incident from becoming something far more serious, and to everyone who continues to help us care for and protect our natural environment.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were alerted at 6.24am on Sunday, July 26, to reports of a commercial bin fire at Lochore Meadows Country Park in Lochgelly, Fife.
"Operations Control mobilised one appliance to the scene and crews left at 6.51am after ensuring the area was made safe”.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We received a report of a bin fire in Lochore Meadows Country Park which happened in the early hours of Sunday, July, 26.
"Enquiries are at an early stage."
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