A DUNFERMLINE group have been accorded charity status.

The City of Dunfermline Medieval Heritage Group have been given Fife charitable status by Oscar, the Scottish Charitable Body.

The status came into effect on October 23 and the group is registered as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (S.C.I.O).

They are chaired by Sheila Pitcairn, a well-known and accredited genealogist and have been meeting regularly for most of the last two years.

Sheila commented: “Because of the neglected streets of Kirkgate, Maygate, High Street and especially Bruce Street, which lie within a conservation area of our medieval city.

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“It is not just lack of people living within the inner city, but they general decay of the environment which has increased over the years, and we must prepare for the changing society within the Inner City Centre.

“We want to concentrate on our history, premises, finances, and future.

“These are very important aims and goals for our ancient Royal Burgh and city that we live in. We want to preserve the city's medieval history for today's children, future children and the many visitors who arrive from all over the world.

“We have at least 21 royals who are interred within the walls of the Abbey Church also known as the 'Royal Sepulchre of Scotland' and this needs to be at the forefront of thought for those who are responsible for the historical conservation and education.

“The City of Dunfermline Medieval Heritage Group ensure this is always on the agenda for those whose responsibility this falls upon.”