CCTV will not be installed at Dunfermline Cemetery despite repeated calls for action by the public to increase security measures by putting cameras up. 

Fife Council have confirmed this evening that although there has been discussion by the authorities around the need for CCTV, they said it is "not seen as a practical solution to the problem" at this time because of the large area it would need to cover. 

As reported by the Press, crisis talks were held last week after a shocking attack of vandalism which saw the baby memorial defaced with sickening graffiti.

Although there is no promise of CCTV, Fife Council and Police Scotland have now said that they will step up patrols to help combat anti-social behaviour in Dunfermline. 

Police enquiries are ongoing following a the disturbing act of vandalism.

Distraught families had gone to check on the graves of loved ones after obscenities were scrawled on the memorial and a number of headstones, with many said to have be in tears.

READ MORE: Demand for action after sickening graffiti

Although the Press had received images of the vandalism, we have decided not to publish them so as not to upset the loved ones affected further.

In additon to obscenities, slogans scarled include "one less Covid rat" and "Covid hoax".

Now officers from the council's Safer Communities team will liaise with local police to step up patrols in the area and increase vigilance around the cemetery in a bid to deter the perpetrators.

Headstones affected by the mindless attack have been now cleaned in a combined effort by the council and local community volunteers, and a meeting has also been organised with a representative from the charity, SANDS to discuss any further repairs needed following the damage.

Fife Council's Community Manager for Dunfermline, Andrew Gallacher praised the swift response of the local community to help with the clean up.

He said: "This was a senseless attack on memorials that are very precious to families and loved ones.

"Our first priority was to make sure the graffiti was removed as quickly as possible and repair any damage done, and it was brilliant to see the way the community responded. Thanks to everyone who helped in the effort.

"Thankfully incidents like this are rare and the feedback we've had from local police is that this looks like a random isolated incident.

"However, there will be increased vigilance in the area over the next few weeks to help ease community concerns."

READ MORE: Dunfermline Cemetery: Mum's plea after graffiti attack

Sergeant Ross Crawford, of Dunfermline's Community Policing Team, said: "We continue to carry out enquiries into this mindless act of vandalism. Such disregard for property will not be tolerated and those responsible will be dealt with robustly.

Anti-social behaviour and vandalism have no place in our community and it is disappointing to see this criminal activity. I would ask young people and their parents or guardians to consider the impact such behaviour is having on their local community and ask them to take responsibility for their actions.

"We have stepped up dedicated patrols in areas where there have been ongoing issues to provide reassurance.   Anyone who has concerns about antisocial behaviour in their area is encouraged to contact police by calling 101 as promptly as possible."

READ MORE: Police and council at the scene after shocking vandalism to babies memorial

Convener of the council's City of Dunfermline Area Committee Cllr Helen Law added: "A small minority of people have caused this devastating damage, and the majority of our young people contribute very positively to their community.

"I welcome the action that's being taken to increase patrols in the local area to help keep the cemetery a safe, clean and quiet place of contemplation for local people to enjoy."