"Despicable" Theft from War Memorial

Police are appealing for information after the theft of part of a memorial honouring Fife soldiers who died in Iraq.

Enquiries are ongoing after the sundial from the memorial garden in Pitteuchar was stolen.

The theft is believed to have taken place sometime between 2pm and midnight on Monday 2nd June. 

The peace garden was built to in honour of Black Watch soldiers Marc Ferns and Scott McArdle, and former councillor Michael Woods.

It was funded by the local community and the Exit Centre Committee.

Police say the crime has left the Marc's family and the wider community dismayed.

'Shocked and disgusted'

Sergeant Joanne McEwan said: “A theft of this kind is something that causes us all to question just what type of person would carry out such a despicable act of damage.

“The community came together in their grief and in support of Mark Ferns’ family to dedicate a lasting memorial to him, and the individuals responsible for this theft have caused great distress to all concerned.

“It has left many in the community shocked and disgusted.” 

The memorial garden is near the Exit Centre in an area visible to, and visted by members of the public and it is hoped that locals will be able to assist police officers with their investigation.

Sergeant McEwan added: “There is a significant on-going enquiry being undertaken to find the culprits and I would urge anyone who believes that they may have information to get in touch.

“The sundial itself is a distinctive item and I am confident therefore that someone knows something that could help us.”

Anyone with any information regarding the theft should contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.