A Community Burgh Survey for Inverkeithing and a new building repair grant scheme has been announced by Fife Council and Fife Historic Buildings Trust.

The Community Burgh Survey is an opportunity for Inverkeithing's community to share a journey of exploration and discover the fascinating history and archaeology of the town. The results will be published in a book.

There will be opportunities for people to volunteer, learn, contribute and participate in four key areas of activity:

• Archaeological Excavations – take part in a dig on your doorstep! Help uncover and analyse what past residents of Inverkeithing left behind, hid or threw away.

• Archive Research – document detectives, learn how to access and use historic documents and maps to reveal Inverkeithing's most important stories.

• Standing Building Surveys – learn how to read buildings, understand the significance of built evidence, and help record the Town House and Friary buildings.

• Oral Histories – help collect and preserve memories of Inverkeithing's places and people.

All activities are free and participants will be trained and supported by specialists advising how to successfully contribute.  Volunteers can register for one or more projects and don't need any prior experience or special skills.

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Northlight Heritage will deliver the Burgh Survey activities, alongside Fife Historic Buildings Trust and Fife Council. The meeting on the 29 January will highlight the opportunities for people to get involved. For further information about getting involved in the activities please email [email protected].

The Building Repair Grant Scheme for buildings in the Inverkeithing High Street area will help private owners to repair or improve their properties. Grants can support sensitive repairs to historic buildings using traditional materials and skills, as well as the reinstatement of appropriate architectural details such as improvements to historic shop fronts. Owners can also get advice on how to look after their historic property and improve energy efficiency. The event on 3 February will be for property owners and occupiers in the High Street area of Inverkeithing. Come along to learn more about the grant scheme and the rights and responsibilities of property owners and landlords. There will also be the opportunity to discuss your project with a member of the team.

Councillor Alice McGarry, Convener of the South & West Fife Villages Area Committee said: "Inverkeithing has a superb architectural heritage which is reflected in its many listed historic buildings and large Conservation Area. These activities will help the people of Inverkeithing discover their past and use that knowledge to give a better-informed contribution to plans for its future through the Inverkeithing Heritage Regeneration scheme. It's planned to combine the survey results and produce the Inverkeithing Burgh Survey book, which will prove an authoritative and comprehensive overview of the archaeology, heritage and historic environment of the town.

"It's also important that our historic buildings get the regular care and attention they need. This grant scheme is designed to help property owners and occupiers to repair and conserve the historic fabric and traditional appearance of their buildings."

Both these programmes are generously funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic Environment Scotland through the Inverkeithing Heritage Regeneration scheme.

A range of activities will be delivered in parallel with the grant scheme, including traditional skills training for local contractors and events and training for homeowners.

(MH/JG)