VILLAGERS in Limekilns community has come together to celebrate one resident's 100th birthday.

Martha Bruce, a "Limekilns lady through and through", will celebrate her centenary year in September, and wanted to commemorate it with little fuss.

With the help of Sue Hamilton, two new community benches have been funded in her honour.

Sue told us: "Martha had been anticipating her birthday and was trying to fend off what might happen because she didn't want a big event, but obviously wanted to mark it.

"I just got on with it and managed to make it happen, and am delighted with the result."

She explained that Martha thought new benches would be helpful for the less mobile members of the village if they needed somewhere to rest during a walk; "as ever, she considers the needs of others before her own!"

Sue continued: "It was felt there should also be a special 100th birthday bench for everyone to see, use, and appreciate in the centre of the community.

"A new bench was sorely needed to replace the dangerously-derelict one on Limekilns Green.

"As the council was not going to replace that bench, a Crowdfunder appeal was sponsored by the community council and launched with the aim of raising £1500 to cover the cost of two benches.

"In less than a month, that amount was duly raised, and the benches ordered."

Martha's "100th Birthday Bench" was installed by Fife Council this week, with the second one due to be placed on the Braes path.

"Martha is delighted with the new seat placed on Limekilns Green in honour of her recent 100th birthday," Sue said, "and wishes to thank all who contributed to its purchase and installation."