Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) and volunteers from West Fife Woodlands Group (WFWG) have announced the successful completion of a new footbridge at Muirside Woods, near Saline.

The bridge is a vital link to the wider area and offers access to the core path network and the National Cycle Network.

The new footbridge was first proposed over 10 years ago, but funding issues and tree planting programmes in the area stalled any progress.

Ronnie Collins, Vice Chairman of WFWG, said: "Once the funding began to be put in place we prepared for 2-3 years but when we actually started to build we completed the bridge in only 4 weeks.

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"We are delighted with the end result. It is a major improvement to countryside accessibility for the residents of Saline and the wider community."

Funding was obtained from WFWG, Fife Environment Trust (FET) and Scottish Mines Restoration Trust (SMRT). FLS provided 'in-kind' support that included providing the metalwork for the bridge as well as skill-sharing and project supervision.

As well as permitting access to the site from Kinnedar Mains Steadings, the Comrie Development Company also supplied material for the path leading to the bridge.

Completion of the new bridge was welcomed by West Fife Woodland Group, Forestry and Land Scotland, Steelend and Saline Community Development Trust, Saline Environment Group and Saline residents.

Forestry and Land Scotland Community Ranger Jenny Ventham said: "I am very glad this project has come to fruition, it is a project that I know the community has wanted for a while and I'm happy FLS and WFWG have been able to deliver it.

"We're looking forward to see working with the community in the future."

The construction works were delivered to programme and budget with a final construction cost of £11,500 plus £10,000 in-kind contributions.