A Cupar dental practice has clarified its future after locals feared it was set to close The Cupar Dentist is run by Edinburgh-based Real Good Dental which recorded a £10.4 million loss in 2023 And its Castle Street practice sent a text to some patients last week saying they are stopping all work apart from emergencies It then emerged it had faced recruitment challenges with closure talk spreading on social media Many said they had not been alerted and had only heard of the move from other patients Others said they had been asked to settle bills for unfinished treatment while staff had indicated closure was imminent The Courier revealed on Friday morning that NHS Fife and North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie were urgently trying to get clarity Real Good Dental clinical director Jacqui Frederick responded to the closure fears She said: “We are saddened to read of any distress caused to patients who have read inaccurate social media posts regarding our Cupar practice “Our first practice was established in Fife thirteen years ago – and we remain as committed to caring for our patients there “It is not correct to say the Cupar practice is closing next month “It is currently operational – but providing emergency treatment only whilst we await recruitment of a new dentist we have arranged continuity of care (for patients already registered at Cupar) at nearby sister practices that are also part of Real Good Dental group “We are in contact with the local health board and are keeping them fully appraised of this matter.” Comments are currently disabled as they require cookies and it appears you've opted out of cookies on this site. To participate in the conversation, please adjust your cookie preferences in order to enable comments Some cookies used are essential to providing a service while others help us improve your experience and provide us with insights into how the site is being used For more detailed information about the cookies we use, see our Cookies page Necessary cookies enable core functionality such as security You may disable these by changing your browser settings but this may affect how the website functions We'd like to set Google Analytics cookies to help us to improve our website by collecting and reporting information on how you use it The cookies collect information in a way that does not directly identify anyone For more information on how these cookies work We'd like to allow Social Media cookies to provide a richer experience These cookies will allow us the ability to list Fife Council tweets and Facebook posts audio clips & Videos on some of our pages Our videos use Youtube's privacy-enhanced mode These cookies allow us to show relevant adverts to the content you are viewing They also provide the ability to deliver targeted online advertising across other platforms like Facebook News Centre A ballot on the proposal to create a Digital Improvement District (DID) for the Cupar area could take place in the new year if agreed by councillors at next week’s North East Fife Area Committee will be considered by councillors who will decide whether a renewal ballot can be carried out Councillors previously considered a report on the proposals from CuparNow in October and agreed to look at this again in December to allow time for further discussion around the issues which had been raised Place Programmes and Polices Service Manager said: "We are committed to ensuring our town centers are thriving places and to the value that Business Improvement Districts and in the case of Cupar the Digital Improvement District could bring in helping deliver this outcome “In considering proposals for the renewal of CuparNow’s mandate Fife Council has a legislative role and a duty to ensure transparency fairness and accountability to the levy payers “We have now completed that work and believe the proposal from CuparNow is close enough to compliance to allow the Renewal Ballot to proceed and allow local businesses as levy payers the right to decide whether they wish to renew the mandate for the Digital Improvement District (DID) for Cupar” Contact us Make a complaint Site map Social Media Accessibility Cookies Policy The Courier is taking a closer look at planning applications and developments across Fife with our new regular round-up Fife Planning Ahead looks at the most interesting plans across the Kingdom This week they include the demolition of a house at Lade Braes St Andrews; a new memorial cairn to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Kirkcaldy war memorial; and the conversion of a Cupar office into flats Permission has been granted for the demolition of a house within St Andrews conservation area The applicants hope the detached home at 46 Lade Braes will be replaced with a contemporary home Conservation area consent has now been granted to allow the existing building to be knocked down the replacement will be a two-storey house with basement that is sympathetic to the conservation area space for drying clothes and parking spaces The planning agent adds: “The proposal is a positive contribution to the urban fabric of St Andrews.” A memorial cairn is to be erected to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Kirkcaldy war memorial Plans by the Royal British Legion have been approved by Fife Council The stone cairn in the war memorial gardens will include a time capsule containing information provided by local schools And seven “Walking With Heroes” stepping stones bearing the names of distinguished Kirkcaldy war heroes will also be laid Kirkcaldy is thought to have Fife’s biggest war memorial following a parade to the garden from Volunteers Green According to the application on the council’s planning portal a new standard for Kirkcaldy could also be dedicated The war memorial will then be cleaned in advance of a significant remembrance parade in November A former solicitor’s office in Cupar is to be converted into two flats The ground floor of the premises at 35 Bonnygate was latterly a barbers However it has been empty for several years Fife Council planners have approved a plan to create low cost housing upstairs the ground floor will continue to be a shop The plan states the changes will not affect the exterior of the building which is within the Cupar conservation area The Glenrothes electricity supply is to be given a boost following approval of an energy storage battery box The 200 kilowatt system will be installed at Viewfield Industrial Estate AMP Clean Energy is developing similar boxes across the UK to provide a low carbon flexible store of electricity for communities It imports electricity from the network when demand is low and then exports it back during period of high demand The company says this improves reliability given the increasing demand for electricity through the use of electric vehicles and heating systems All of the stored electricity from the Glenrothes battery box will be consumed locally A cycle path and footpath near Kincardine will be closed for more than seven months during work to repair an electrical tower Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) has been granted permission for the significant strengthening works near the town’s power station The remedial work on the shore of the Firth of Forth will last until November And a cycle route that runs from Station Road under the Clackmannanshire Bridge and towards Kilbagie will close for the duration The Fife planning portal links to all of the developments can be found here: Kirkcaldy war memorial cairn St Andrews house demolition Cupar office conversion Glenrothes battery box Kincardine electricity tower repairs A NEW report capturing insights into the lives of young people who grew up living beside Belfast’s longest peace barrier in Cupar Street has revealed the challenges and hopes of a generation living with a legacy of division Peace Walls: An Impact Report Capturing Youth Voices was launched as part of the Wall2Wall Project by Springboard Opportunities Ltd funded by the International Fund for Irelands Personal Youth Development Programme (PYDP) working with young people aged between 16-20 years who live on either side of the Cupar Way peace line helping them build understanding between the two communities The report depicts experiences of the young participants and how living near an interface has impacted their lives and the lives of their community Participants got the opportunity to take part in an overseas visit to Cyprus to learn and share with their young Greek and Turkish counterparts enabling them to engage with peers living in a divided society in the shadow of peace barriers peer to peer learning and group reflection sessions in order to help the participants gain an insight into the impact of division but more importantly the importance of peacebuilding and effective cross community work One participant outlined the impact of Wall2Wall saying “Joining the ‘Wall2Wall’ group wasn’t something I had planned to do but I am glad I did "We talked about the wall and division and for the first time I understood so many different perspectives on this place we called home I started to create my own beliefs on things rather than just taking on what other people had told me.” Another participant outlined the impact the project has had on their wider family circle “The project has brought different perspectives to my family They always worried about me spending time on the other side of the wall Now I move more freely through the city and my family now have the belief that there’s hope for interface violence to stop.” Sign up to the daily Belfastmedia briefing to stay up to date with everything Belfast Donate to BelfastMedia.com today to ensure that this website remains free now Developed and maintained by Soundlining © Copyright 2025 Belfast Media All rights reserved Developed and maintained by Soundlining © Copyright 2025 Belfast Media All rights reserved Fife Council has taken action to monitor water levels in Cupar's Lady Burn to help warn and inform local residents of flooding risks in the town In December 2023 severe storms caused widespread flooding, affecting a number of properties and roads over the festive season as part of ongoing work to reduce Cupar's flooding risks the council has installed a river level monitor on the Lady Burn at Skinner Steps to provide regular information on water levels The system will alert the council when water levels in the Burn reach a certain threshold and therefore the potential for flooding in the area A camera will also provide information on any blockages at the bridge that could cause water levels to rise The council's environment spokesperson Cllr Jan Wincott welcomed the positive steps being taken to protect the area She added: "Anyone who has experienced flooding and being evacuated from their homes will know what an incredibly distressing experience it is to go through "Unfortunately there are a number of areas in Fife including Cupar where flooding events are becoming more common as the climate changes "We're working with communities to tackle these challenges help residents be better prepared for these events and put measures in place to reduce flooding risk "This monitor will give us early warning of flooding risk and give people time to take the necessary action to protect themselves and their properties." The new monitoring system is now being tested and calibrated to determine the suitable threshold levels for alerts to be sent to the council it's planned to open up the system to the local community so they can be alerted to the potential of flooding and to prepare for any impacts A man had to be cut free from his car before he could be taken to hospital after a crash near Cupar Emergency services were called to the A91 between Cupar and Auchtermuchty shortly after midnight on Sunday Firefighters came to the aid of a man who was trapped in a car They were forced to remove the door of the vehicle before he could be rescued and passed into the care of medical teams He was taken by ambulance to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee A spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “We received a call from police at 12.24am “We sent a crew from Auchtermuchty and one from Newburgh “They rescued one male who was trapped in a car and removed the car door “The man was handed to the Scottish Ambulance Service and taken to Ninewells Hospital.” Police Scotland has been contacted for more information A driver has been issued with a fine after a crash closed a road near Cupar for over an hour Emergency services were called to the A914 at the junction for Springfield at around 8.30am on Thursday Police say there were no reports of any injuries and the road reopened at around 10am Balmalcolm and Kettlebridge as a result of the crash Stagecoach East Scotland express services were diverted via the A92 and A91 A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 8.30am on Thursday we were called to a report of a two-vehicle crash on the A914 near Springfield “Emergency services attended and there were no reports of injuries “One driver was issued a fixed penalty notice in connection with a road traffic offence “The road fully reopened around 10am.” A decision on the controversial Cupar North planning application could take several more months due to its complexity Persimmon Homes submitted an updated bid for almost 1,500 houses to Fife Council in April While local authorities normally aim to determine major applications within four months Fife Council is unable to give a target date in this case And many residents are becoming frustrated with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the town’s future the proposal would increase the size of Cupar by 30% And a relief road would bypass the town centre While the latest application was submitted seven months ago the plan has actually been rumbling on for more than two decades Community council chair Alistair Crockett said: “It’s been 22 years of waiting for a decision “The developer has submitted three different sets of plans in that time.” Cupar North is one of the biggest planning applications in north east Fife history The developer says it will help tackle Fife’s housing emergency by providing more homes school capacity issues and concerns health facilities would be swamped And the community council and Sustainable Cupar have each submitted a 20-page detailed objection Persimmon say they are continuing to work with Fife Council to ensure the proposals are brought forward as quickly as possible A spokesperson said: “Cupar North is a significant project that can help address Fife’s housing emergency by increasing the availability of private housing at an affordable level.” They said it would also provide “much-needed affordable housing that will help local families in housing need.” Meanwhile Fife Council‘s head of planning Pam Ewen said: “We are still assessing the planning application for Cupar North “At the moment we can’t give a determination date a progress report will be available on the council’s online planning portal “We understand the local community is keen to find out more but a full assessment needs to be completed before the application can be progressed to the planning committee.” A Fife hospital’s minor injuries unit could close for good amid staff shortages Health chiefs are proposing shutting the unit at Adamson Hospital in Cupar Patients will instead be directed 10 miles to the MIU at St Andrews Hospital An options appraisal has already been carried out And Fife Health and Social Care Partnership (FHSCP) says continuing with the current model risks the sustainability of services This is because coverage for specialist staff in the event of illness is not readily available the x-ray machine in Cupar needs replaced at a cost of £300,000 Monday’s announcement follows a temporary closure of the Cupar service in January And it comes amid efforts to cut a multi-million-pound overspend from the HSCP budget it has prompted concern over the impact it would have on local people FHSCP looked at three potential options for the Cupar minor injuries unit They say their recommendation is guided by medical research expert clinical opinion and best practice guidelines to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of patient care And the aim is to help improve clinical outcomes and better use of resources it will provide MIU and x-ray services in St Andrews during weekdays The Cupar MIU treats around 12 patients a day with 75 people requiring x-rays every week Bosses are now asking for public feedback on the plans And they have launched an online survey, which should be completed by March 30 Final recommendations will be presented to the Fife Integration Joint Board for a decision later this year North East Fife MSP Willie Rennie will meet HSCP leaders on March 10 to discuss the implications in detail He said: “It would not be right if it were north east Fife who were to face the brunt of cuts imposed as a result of insufficient funding from the Scottish Government “I want to understand what the loss of the minor injuries unit would mean for local GPs and what the loss of the x-ray facility would mean for the hospital “I am also concerned about the extra distance to St Andrews to access these important services.” Fife Health and Social Care Service announced in October it was struggling with a £21 million overspend. respite provision and out-of-hours services were all on the cards to balance the books One of the changes announced then included permanent changes to out-of-hours and MIU services Cupar solar farm developers have cut the size of their planned project in a bid to allay public concerns Balance Power will reveal a fresh proposal at a consultation event in the town this week And planning manager Ryan McIndoe says it will be 20% smaller than before The move follows fears the 155-acre development would be “a disaster for the countryside” Many residents complained the original plans would have a huge visual impact ruining the last truly rural route out of Cupar Mr McIndoe says the company has now taken those views on board “We’re genuinely trying to listen to people,” he said “That has resulted in a 20% reduction in the array by pulling it back from the western edge.” Around 70 people attended an initial consultation held by Balance Power in November They viewed details of the planned solar farm at Over Rankeilor and shared opinions Mr McIndoe said: “The feedback was the western side of the site is too sensitive from a landscape and visual impact point of view “We’ve now modified the scheme to relieve some of those concerns.” Other fears expressed by residents included impact on wildlife Balance Power intends to create wildflower areas with species to attract insects It is also considering fencing that ensures mammals can move across the area Many residents also suggested motorways and city roofs would be better solar farm locations. Mr McIndoe says this is ruled out for large arrays due to UK regulations He acknowledges solar farms have proved unpopular in many communities he adds: “No-one likes the nature of development but everyone agrees we need to do something to achieve net zero “These schemes are needed but they need to be sensitive to the environment and the people who live in these settings.” The new plans will go on display at Howe of Fife Rugby Club They will also be revealed on the Balance Power website from 9am on Thursday Feedback will again be taken on board before any planning application is submitted Balance Power is seeking consent for 40 years The public is to be asked for their views on plans for a huge solar farm on the outskirts of Cupar Leading energy project developer Balance Power Projects wants to site its array at Over Rankeilor Farm The 155-acre development would be similar in size to 88 football pitches And it would cover several fields on what is described as the last truly rural route out of Cupar Balance Power Projects says it is looking to advance the net zero objectives set by the Scottish Government while some locals welcome the proposal others fear the effect of the loss of so much farmland One neighbouring farmer said: “There’s lots of these things being touted about the countryside It’s not really about a green agenda.” In a proposal of application notice submitted to Fife Council the energy firm describes the 30 megawatt array as a major development As a result, it will have to be determined by Fife Council’s north east planning committee the development will consist of ground-mounted solar panels A new access will be created from a road to the south of the site security lighting and CCTV will be installed Balance Power says it is assessing two route options for transmission cabling to connect the solar farm to the grid at Cupar substation Members of the public are invited to two consultation events where they can learn more about the Cupar solar farm plan The first takes place at Howe of Fife Rugby Football Club on November 7 Members of the development team will be available from 3pm to 7pm The second event is on January 16 at the same place and time Exhibition boards will be available to view and feedback forms will be provided Fife health chiefs were accused of insulting the public’s intelligence during a tense meeting on the future of the Cupar minor injuries unit Many people believe closure is a done deal according to Cupar councillor John Caffrey Fife Health and Social Care Partnership (FHSCP) did little to quell those fears More than 800 people have already responded to an online survey, which ends on Sunday And around 80 took the chance to quiz officials at a community council meeting on Tuesday evening It followed last month’s shock announcement of proposals to shut the minor injuries unit at Adamson Hospital, and remove the x-ray machine. Services will transfer to St Andrews Hospital if the move is agreed FHSP says staff shortages mean it is no longer sustainable to run the service in both towns Mr Caffrey said: “Tensions are running very high “People are very concerned and they’re angry at what they see as closure by stealth.” The Liberal Democrat councillor added: “The HSCP members kept offering assurances that no decision has been taken yet “You just had to sit in the room to realise nobody believes that “They have presented three options and told us in advance what their preferred option is that’s an insult to the intelligence of people in that room and beyond.” Mr Caffrey says his inbox is full of concerned emails from people asking if closure is a done deal “It certainly looks as if it’s that way.” he said Cupar Community Council chairman Alistair Crocket added: “Why should it move to St Andrews “There’s a bigger population in a 16-mile radius around Cupar than around St Andrews an injured person would have to take two buses on a circuitous route for help FHSCP will hold another meeting with St Andrews Community Council And an online meeting will also take place on Thursday FHSCP say moving the minor injury unit and x-ray from Cupar to St Andrews remains their preferred option They maintain the recommendation is guided by medical research and clinical opinion in the best interests of patient care said: “This process has allowed us to outline the rationale for the proposals and gather feedback,” she said “It has also given us the chance to emphasise that Adamson Hospital remains a key hub for healthcare offering a wide range of services tailored to the needs of our local population.” options will be scrutinised before a final decision is taken To attend Thursday’s online meeting, people must email HSCP.ParticipationEngagement@fife.gov.uk for information A new shop offering customers the chance to buy or hire handmade hats has opened in Cupar has opened The Hat Studio by Joss Designs on the Fife town’s Lady Wynd She describes the store as a “sweet shop for adults” with bespoke hats inspired by nature and colour started to design hats after learning to make headdresses for samba dancers in Brazil when she moved to the country with her husband in the RAF She said: “I had to reinvent myself when we went to Brazil as I couldn’t work as a lawyer there and I went to work making big headdresses for the samba dancers and since then I have been working at home and my business has been getting increasing traction “But I didn’t have somewhere for people to come and see the work I do so the idea for a shop was born and the right premises came up “It is spending money on something they are not going to wear again “They are getting great designer products that aren’t only going to wear once The store – which has moved into the former Temptation cake shop unit – also has a workshop so people can make their own hats Joss says she has had a “lovely” reaction since opening with customers travelling from Edinburgh and Fife She added: “The shop is bright and colourful and joyful “I wanted it to feel like a sweet shop for adults “Small businesses are really suffering right now and I am trying to understand and tackle the affordability issue for customers “For similar money to buying a mass-made product It comes after plans emerged for the Cupar Toymaster toy shop to close after 40 years However, a new travel agency has opened on Crossgate Robb Hall was last seen in Springfield near Cupar at around 1pm on Monday Officers working to trace the missing man had searched a local beauty spot at Letham Woods When last seen he was wearing a black woolly tammy hat Sergeant Darren Pilkington overseeing the search said concerns were growing for the missing man’s welfare “With the weather conditions causing us concern we have specialist officers carrying out searches in the area of Letham Woods,” he said. police confirmed on Tuesday morning that Mr Hall had now been traced safe and well A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “Robb Hall reported missing from Springfield lear Cupar “Thank you to everyone who shared and responded to our appeal.” Is the closure of the Cupar minor injuries unit already decided or will public opinion count That has been a burning question since Fife Health and Social Care Partnership (FHSCP) announced plans to move services to St Andrews Bosses say continuing with the MIU and x-ray service at Adamson Hospital is unsustainable given staff shortages And merging with St Andrews ensures a better use of resources They have launched an online consultation and are inviting public comments But many people fear the outcome is a done deal given an options appraisal has already been carried out Cupar councillor John Caffrey insists people can influence decisions He was inundated with emails from “horrified” locals within hours of Monday’s announcement Several mention the impact of the move, particularly if 1,500 homes at Cupar North are approved And Mr Caffrey is now urging those who oppose it to make their voices heard He said: “I’ve seen comments on Facebook saying it’s a done deal and it’s already decided “The feedback I’m getting is people are absolutely horrified by the thought “My message loud and clear would be fill out the consultation. “That’s the priority because that’s what the partnership is going to read “By all means contact me by email as well I’m happy to build up a picture of what people are saying.” The Liberal Democrat councillor cited several examples where people power made a difference A parent campaign in 2012 saved Cupar’s Eden Park Respite Centre for children from closure And campaigns to retain both Stratheden Hospital and Adamson Hospital also succeeded The Cupar minor injuries unit treats ailments such as burns It is open on weekdays only from 8am to 6pm The FHSCP looked at three options during its appraisal it concluded continuing with the current model risks the sustainability of services Coverage for specialist staff is not readily available in the event of sickness Managers say their recommendation to move services to St Andrews was guided by medical research and expert clinical opinion And a final decision will be made after public engagement Berwick Rangers advanced into the next round of the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup after a pulsating 4-2 win over Cupar Heartsin their Round 1 clash with the other goals scored by Arran Laidlaw and Jamie Watson Cupar Hearts took the lead through Scott Napier and Liam Kelly scored their other The visitors also had ex-Berwick player Lewis Baker sent off Cupar Hearts piled the early pressure on Berwick straight from the kick off The visitors sent many players forward as a long ball fell to Iain Boylan on the right Boylan showed quick feet to find space for a shot that was palmed away by Calum Antell the rebound fell to Kyle Baker at the back post who slotted the ball into the net to give Cupar the lead with just over a minute on the clock Berwick remained calm and seemingly fought fire with fire as Thomas Scobbie sent countless players on the attack Some quick passes found Grant Nelson in space on the edge of the box but his shot at a tight angle flew over the bar On the twenty-minute mark and Cupar were awarded an indirect free-kick on the edge of the box Ex-Berwick player Kyle Baker stepped up to the layoff but his shot was straight at Antell as Berwick got away with the dangerous set–piece Minutes later and the Dream Team found the equaliser Alan Cook’s long ball found Jamie McCormack on the right-hand side He played a delicate through ball to Devers who managed to pick out Arran Laidlaw in the six-yard box and tapped home at the near post The Gers began to dominate possession and the chances since the equaliser Cupar struggled to deal with the agility of Devers as he found space 25 yards out in midfield before his shot that flew not far wide Kane O’Connor was having a great outing too as he dictated the pace of the game in the centre of the park O’Connor picked out McCormack whose cross was met by Jamie Watson The second half started in similar fashion as the Dream Team looked to complete the turnaround All of Berwick’s good play came down the right with the strong connection between McCormack and Devers The cross from Devers was pounced upon by McCormack in acres of space in the Cupar box However the Berwick skipper could only place the ball into the gloves of Jamie Cowan to waste a great chance Berwick continued to dominate and once again it was Devers pulling the strings The Gers winger showed his pace to get down the right before whipping in an excellent delivery into the middle The cross was gathered by Watson before he struck the ball into the bottom right corner to give Berwick a well–deserved lead The visitors looked to respond as they brought on the other former ex-Gers man Kyle’s brother Lewis Baker was subbed on with an hour played No sooner than coming on Lewis Baker was back off the pitch After being denied a foul he showed his anger at the referee A return to Shielfield Park to forget as Baker is sent off under two minutes from being subbed on The Dream Team looked to put the game to bed with the player advantage Berwick had several efforts cleared off the line as Cupar just about held on With just under ten minutes to play Devers saw his thunderous strike tipped onto the bar brilliantly by Cowan to keep the visitors in it Seven minutes from time and Berwick were left to rue their missed chances A corner for Cupar Hearts was cleared but only straight to Liam Kelly on the edge of the box and the ball squirmed under Antell and into the goal to cast wild celebrations from the away supporters Cupar parked their bus in front of the goal as they looked to force extra-time Cook went on another of his forward runs from defence before his 30-yard shot was parried out by Cowan straight to Devers He slotted home the rebound to put Berwick back in front after 87 minutes The visitors were forced to attack once again and this created space for the Dream Team to exploit Substitute Mani Ashraf drove forward down the right before his cutback was met by Devers who calmly slotted home to send Berwick into the next round Berwick sealed an entertaining 4-2 win to advance to the next stage The Gers are back in action on Tuesday night as they welcome Bo’ness United to Shielfield Park in the Lowland League A man has been arrested after an Audi car was allegedly stolen in Cupar The car was reported stolen from the Fife town’s Crossgate on Friday The Audi was later spotted being driven in Tayport Officers have since arrested a 23-year-old man in connection A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 12.10pm on Friday we received a report of an Audi car stolen from Crossgate a 23-year-old man has been arrested in connection and the car was recovered A chef and former drummer who catered for England’s cricket team and worked with Lidl is opening a new Italian small plate and wood-fired pizza restaurant in Cupar is taking over former cafe and bistro The Press on the town’s George Inn Pend will open in three phases and offer freshly made wood-fired pizza Al grew up in Leeds and worked in his Sicilian dad Mimmo’s restaurant from the age of eight he says he “wanted to be a rockstar” and spent 10 years away from cooking as he worked as a session drummer with bands worldwide It was only when he moved back to the UK after a period in Dubai that he returned to the kitchen Since then he has worked in “some of the country’s best restaurants” and set up his own private dining and events catering business Al relocated to Cupar in April 2024 with his wife Heather He told The Courier: “I was looking for a kitchen to run Simmer Kitchen from but when The Press came up I looked around inside and the restaurant just has something about it “I had a restaurant before and I did think ‘do I want that again?’ “I then thought the only way it is going to work is if it is something small “If I was going to do it it would have to be something different and authentic “We will have wood-fired pizzas and a small menu with dishes that change weekly – they will be Italian but Scottish produce-led “I would call it – not tapas because I hate that word – but stuzzi “Then upstairs will be a tasting menu – we will have 12 seats together and everyone eats at the same time “It will bring people together – that will be the third phase as we are doing it in sections “Then on top of that I do private dining and food demonstrations at festivals.” Al says his oldest son Sebastian will help in the kitchen while Louis who often takes part in food demonstrations at festivals The family joined Al’s cousin Patricia Cromar in Fife once ran St Andrews fish and chip shops Cromars and Tailend Al added: “We lived in the city for such a long time and it was either come here or move abroad “We have been so blessed to come to Cupar “A lot of people will expect things like spaghetti bolognese at an Italian restaurant but you will never see that on my menu “There will be authentic dishes you have never tried before “We will keep everything small and done right – it will be quality not quantity “I would love people to at least try it and see what they feel like and make their own decision “Not trying it and then dismissing it is something I hope people don’t do “It is not going to be too outrageous or out-of-the-box.” Al also hopes to incorporate Pilot Light – a campaign to support hospitality workers’ mental health – in his new venture when I started out I was being shouted at all the time “But it is changing and I think people like to work with me because I am chill and understand it.” Osteria will serve wood-fired pizza Thursday to Saturday this week from 5pm until 9.30pm Al says customers should check the website and social media for future opening hours He hopes the full restaurant will open in February The Press announced its closure in July 2024 after seven years a former Royal Air Force Warrant Officer known for his aircraft crash investigations at RAF Leuchars and his dedicated service to the Cupar community The lifelong military man was involved in the investigation of major aircraft incidents These included the 1993 Hercules crash at Glen Loch The explosive ordnance specialist and Warrant Officer of the RAF Leuchars Armament Engineering Squadron played a critical role in the safe removal and disposal of explosive materials from crash sites His expertise and commitment earned him the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 1982 for services to the Royal Air Force his daughter Paula Pearson said: “My dad spent a lifetime in the RAF “He was military to the core and extremely knowledgeable about his field of expertise He would be astounded that so many people remember him fondly “My dad would most certainly be raising a glass to all that have reached out to share their memories of him with me.” where he excelled in football and became team captain he embarked on a distinguished 40-year career in the RAF as a Halton Apprentice Engineer He trained as an armourer and served in Scotland at RAF Leuchars and RAF Kinloss Ed also served in recruitment offices in Dundee and Glasgow His postings took him further afield to RAF bases across the UK and overseas Ed bought his first house in Cupar in 1971 and sold his last house in Cupar in 2020 when he moved to Clayton Daughter Paula said: “He moved around for work but always maintained a home in Cupar my brother and I would stay in Cupar with our mum to give us a stable education whilst my dad travelled home at weekends or whenever he could to see us.” Ed became a well-respected figure in St Andrews golf circles After retiring from the RAF, he worked with St Andrews Links Trust The St Andrews Golf Club member played in the Dunhill Cup Pro Am in 1992 and was a familiar face at major golf tournaments His professionalism saw him marshal at the Open Championship and the Dunhill Cup where he also managed radio communications His expertise was later sought at Royal Liverpool for the Open in 2006 Ed served on Cupar Community Council. Former Cupar Community Council chairperson Gina Logan said: “Ed was a valued member of Cupar and District Community Council for a number of years “He always wanted what was best for the town and contributed in a very positive manner on all aspects of the town development “He was one of the strongest opponents to Cupar North “His keyboard playing was known throughout the town and many enjoyed the pleasure if listening to him Ed’s adventurous spirit extended beyond the golf course and community halls he spent countless hours in the Scottish hills Having been involved with the mountain rescue team in Kinloss he later became an instructor in outdoor leadership guiding others through Scotland’s rugged landscapes Music and dancing also played a big part in Ed’s life entertaining at retirement homes and community events and was a popular member of several Scottish country dance groups Ed was married to Ann for 57 years until her passing in 2022 He is survived by his children Paula and Stuart A celebration of Ed’s life is being held at Brewsterwells Crematorium Donations in his memory can be made to the RAF Benevolent Fund and the all-important black bun – but where’s the best place to buy one in Cupar According to Cupar and District Pipe Band member Douglas Provan He describes their traditional Scottish fruit cake as “excellent” and the “best.” “It’s what I enjoy when I have my wee dram,” he says Cupar Pipe Band will be performing at Cupar Tesco on South Road from 11am to 1pm on Hogmanay But the 76-year-old has also been reflecting on the role of bagpipes at Hogmanay and what he loves most about Cupar Born in a British military hospital in Egypt in 1948 Douglas’ journey has taken him far and wide before he eventually settled in Cupar in 1988 “My dad was born in cottages by Dairsie Bridge, and we always visited here,” says the former Cupar Community Council secretary then at Glenrothes and St Andrews until I retired in 2008 Douglas started playing the pipes when he retired in 2008 Cupar didn’t have a pipe band – just a small group playing chanters at Age Concern on Wednesdays When that faded, a friend of his wife Carole’s mentioned her boys were learning with the City of St Andrews Pipe Band “I joined there as a total beginner,” he says I joined and have been with Cupar ever since.” Douglas has piped for the Hogmanay ceilidh at Cupar Corn Exchange He’s also a supporter of Hogmanay traditions “Bagpipes and Hogmanay go hand in hand – it’s as Scottish as it gets,” he says “The sound of the pipes just fits the tradition Cupar Pipe Band play at everything from remembrance parades and Cupar Children’s Gala to weddings But really what it’s about is being part of the community “What I enjoy most is the camaraderie,” he says That makes playing together so enjoyable.” you always see someone you know in the crowd “I don’t think I’ve ever gone into Cupar without bumping into someone for a chat!” The Christmas lights switch-on is a great example of the community coming together “I knew the young piper who piped on Santa this year – you always see someone you know “Baynes’ black buns are the best “This year we’re spending it with family.” “You’ve got to make an effort to be part of it “I’m in several clubs –  Cupar Golf Club, the Burns Club, Probus, and the Cupar Heritage group and I hope the tradition keeps going strong for years to come.” A 29-year-old man was arrested in connection with police assault after a disturbance in Cupar Officers were called to an incident at 1pm on Friday on Bonnygate in the Fife town A 29-year-old man was arrested in connection with offences including breach of bail and police assault with two police vans and multiple officers in attendance A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers were called to a report of a disturbance at a premises on Bonnygate “A 29-year-old man was arrested in connection with offences including breach of bail and police assault “He is expected to appear at court at a later date.” The home of a Cupar man who is unable to walk or talk was left without power for four days due to Storm Eowyn The Paxton family have lived in the Fife village of Kemback since 2017 They are on Scottish Power’s priority service due to a disability in the household the family had to relocate to a hotel in Dundee for four days because they urgently needed electricity His wife Elaine, 57, says Scottish Power’s procedures failed priority customers when the power went out across much of Fife She told The Courier: “I rang the 105 number when the power went out at about 5pm on Friday “I told them I totally understand it’s a problem across the country but what’s the point in having a priority service if you’re not going to get it “I can’t stay in this house with my husband: he’s severely disabled “She said ‘we’ve got 13 generators “Why does a multi-million-pound company like Scottish Power have only 13 generators?” Elaine said she was given £200 per night for a hotel room but this ended up costing more for her whole family She says she was worried about affording food and accommodation for her family while they were displaced Elaine says she received no communication from Scottish Power “There have been four of us driving back and forth from the hotel to the house because we didn’t have this medication or that medication,” Elaine added “I have to plan how I’m going to get through this day to keep my husband alive “If I’d got a message from Scottish Power telling me it’s off and they don’t know when it will be back on “On Tuesday afternoon I got a phone call from Scottish Power asking me how I was “I said ‘thank you for ringing me but this phone call would’ve been much more appreciated on Saturday morning.’ “They deal with emergency situations and they deal with supplying vulnerable people A spokesperson for Scottish Power Energy Networks said: “We understand the inconvenience experienced by Mrs Paxton and her husband “Storm Eowyn was a rare red weather event that affected every single area of our network “We proactively contacted over 270,000 customers – 75,000 of those on our priority services register were contacted before the storm hit sent proactive texts to keep her up to date “Mrs Paxton will automatically receive statutory compensation “She will also be able to claim back £10 per person per meal up to a maximum of £120 per household and further compensation for hotel accommodation “Customers can submit claims for food via our website and they can call our dedicated compensation Help Team on 0330 1010 159 to claim hotel reimbursement “More information can be found on our compensation webpage.” A Cupar toy shop is closing after more than 40 years in the same family The owners of Nappy Pin and Toymaster on Bonnygate say the decision is due to a “lack of footfall” in the area who runs the shop alongside his wife Anita says keeping it open is “costing us more money every day” and is no longer sustainable The shop unit has now been put up for sale Paul told The Courier: “It is due to a lack of footfall and it has come to a point where it is costing us more money every day to keep it open “It has been a family-run shop for over 40 years but I don’t think the people of Cupar have supported the business enough for it to be sustainable “It will be a really sad day for everyone in Cupar that this traditional toy shop will cease to trade.” Paul and Anita also run the Nappy Pin and Toymaster shop on Gray Street in Broughty Ferry Paul said: “It seems to be that the residents support the local businesses better in Broughty Ferry “We only put the signs up announcing we are closing in Cupar yesterday “At one point we had 10 members of staff in Cupar but now there are only three – one of the ladies has been here for 23 years.” Paul originally worked in the family’s shop in Dundee until it closed about seven years ago and he moved to the Cupar store He added: “There is just a lack of footfall in the area “The business rates and cost of energy don’t help “Covid also had a major impact and locals were driven to buying online and then got used to it “The effect of that on local businesses has been detrimental “This decision has been on the offing for two or three years but in the last few months has come to a head “The younger generation in Cupar who come in are always just amazed at seeing a traditional toy shop like this.” The Nappy Pin and Toymaster store is on the market through Graham and Sibbald for offers in the region of £165,000 It comes as a Dundee travel agency owner is opening a new shop on Cupar’s Crossgate this weekend Plans for a massive solar farm on the outskirts of Cupar have been branded “a disaster for the countryside” Several neighbours have formed a group against the 155-acre development The Cupar Solar Farm Concerned Residents’ Group fears the array at Over Rankeilor Farm would have a major impact on wildlife and affect their own quality of life And they warn it will also impinge on those who enjoy the countryside for leisure Leading energy project developer Balance Power Projects says it is looking to advance the net zero objectives set by the Scottish Government the development will cover several fields on what is described as the last truly rural route out of Cupar If approved, the development will consist of ground-mounted solar panels, transformers, switchgears and inverters. Balance Power says it is assessing two route options for transmission cabling to connect the solar farm to the grid at Cupar substation And it has arranged two public consultation events to explain the details The first of those is at Howe of Fife Rugby Football Club from 3pm – 7pm today (Thursday) A spokesperson for the Concerned Residents’ Group said: “There are about 12 houses round the site “It will impact on the quality of our lives but that’s not the main issue “We’re worried about wildlife and the effect of a two-metre security fence hare and badgers here so this is a bit of a disaster for the countryside.” It’s a beautiful part of Fife that will be covered and fenced-off.” The residents have been trying to raise awareness of the impending planning application And they have been putting up posters around Cupar and on social media to alert locals The neighbour added: “A lot of Cupar residents use this area or amenity “It’s a beautiful part of Fife that will be covered and fenced-off.” a second consultation event will take place in January And members of the public will then have the chance to comment on a planning application once it is lodged. When Karen Armour took her usual shift driving the Moffat and Williamson ‘town bus’ around Cupar she never expected the day would lead to saving a man’s life But thanks to her quick thinking and CPR training she helped bring 91-year-old Gerry Bonar back from the brink of possible death after he collapsed near Tesco and Gerry – one of my regular passengers – was about to board at the back of Tesco when he just collapsed with his shopping bags and cracked his head,” Karen recalled performing CPR again and again until he stayed conscious,” said Karen but there was no way I was leaving until I knew he was okay.” remembers what happened with great clarity despite being disoriented from what he describes as a “stumble” he laughs that it’s the first time he’s been knocked out since his National Service boxing days in the early 1950s Back then, he fought in the light-heavyweight class with the Royal Scots Greys is forever grateful for everything Karen did to help him I have a backpack because I’ve got a walking stick and it was exceptionally heavy this day,” he told The Courier “I sort of fumbled my feet somewhere and fell backwards “There was an ‘egg’ on the back of my head I never wanted to let it go,” he said fondly Karen’s instincts and training from years ago kicked in at just the right time Despite the emotional toll of the incident adding: “I had to get someone else to drive my bus home.” the former Buckhaven High School pupil was a hairdresser – a profession she still holds dear She drives up to the Adamson Hospital about 17 times a day It’s more than a job – she says it’s “like a wee community on the bus” especially the elderly ones going to and from the hospital They tell her everything about their ailments “Some of them say I’m like a wee therapist,” she shares This sense of community is what made the incident with Gerry so personal “He only takes the bus because his shopping’s a bit heavy to carry,” Karen added fondly it felt like a member of my family was in trouble.” He praises both Karen and the bus service that takes him almost door-to-door from his home to Tesco he passed away aged 66 at home in Methilhill “I was with him when he died,” she recalls That heartbreaking experience has stayed with Karen ever since “I still find it hard to accept that I couldn’t save my dad but the doctor told me there was nothing I could have done which she first received many years ago as a Beaver Scout leader She is now a passionate advocate for more people learning CPR Karen wasn’t sure if she could face going back to work She stopped the bus and went up to the door “He gave me a big hug and said:‘I don’t know what I would have done without you.’ Moffat and Williamson general manager Jim Mooney said everyone at the bus company is “so proud” of Karen He said: “To assist Gerry in this way was a credit to Karen although we are not surprised as she’s a very caring and conscientious person who loves what she does on the Cupar community bus “We operate a lot of services like this where the drivers get familiar with the passengers and vice versa and there’s concern if they miss their normal day of travel All 20 cows trapped in a lorry accident that closed Cupar’s main road for more than seven hours on Thursday have survived unscathed Fife-based livestock transport firm W Walker of Strathkiness confirmed the news to The Courier on Friday A major response involving police and several fire crews was triggered after the lorry overturned near Haugh Park shortly before 10.30am The driver of the stricken vehicle was pulled free from the cab by two workmen who used a ladder to climb onto the lorry He escaped unharmed and was reportedly back at work on Friday While some of the cows were seen being escorted from the overturned lorry it was feared some of the livestock may not have survived confirmed all animals had indeed survived the crash unharmed A spokesperson also praised the emergency services and all those who came to help They described the response from members of the public fellow hauliers as well as those from the farming community as “humbling.” The W Walker spokesperson said: “It is with considerable relief that we can confirm that the driver and all 20 of the cows on the vehicle at the time escaped injury and are safe and well “We would like to express our deep gratitude to the incredible efforts of the police and firefighters who came to assist “We would also like to thank the selfless actions of the public who rushed to help in the immediate aftermath of the crash “Our thanks also go to the veterinary council and vehicle recovery staff for their efforts.” the response from fellow hauliers and members of the local farming community who also came to Cupar to offer whatever assistance they could was nothing short of humbling “We apologise to the residents of Cupar for the inconvenience caused and appreciate their patience during the recovery.” East Bridge in Cupar was closed for more than seven hours as the recovery of the overturned vehicle continued This task was hindered by several traffic light lamposts which had to be dismantled The vehicle was eventually turned upright at around 5pm, allowing the road to be reopened We use cookies to improve your experience of using our website Please let us know if you agree to the use of these cookies who are both based in Fife and who have recently been set apart reflect on their journey to their new roles within the Church of Scotland Providing Ministry of Word to congregations Readers serve where needed either within their presbytery or outwith their local area originally trained as a Reader within the Church of England at St George's Ovenden in Halifax after feeling a calling in the 90s."I then had to move to Scotland for work purposes about a year later but the call never left me," she explained "In 2020 my work sent me on a development course for women and as a result I decided I didn't want to work any more and it was time I became a Reader again Having previously served as a Reader within a different denomination "Whilst it was not necessarily my cup of tea it did help me to understand how the Church of Scotland has got to where it's at so that can help inform my ministry as I go forward," she said Sally was set apart at St Fillan's Church in Aberdour Sunday 26 November and took her first service there a week later as a Reader in the Church of Scotland "The call for me is to be part of a team ministry "Most Readers go into pulpit supply but my call is more about leadership underpinned by ministry of compassion "When Forth View Church comes into existence they have pledged to adopt a team ministry approach so my hope is to be part of this but it will be an evolving picture "When I was a Reader with the Church of England I was part of a team ministry so there's some of that learning that hopefully the basic principles will transfer across Her advice to anyone who might be interested in becoming a Reader is to "dip your toe in the water and give it a try" John MacMillan grew up attending Henderson Church in Kilmarnock and now lives in Wormit in Fife and was set apart at Cupar St John's at the end of November an experience he found "moving and humbling" the Rev John Weir Cook of Henderson asked me if I felt a Call to ministry "The vocation that did attract me was law and I really enjoyed all of my career "As that career was winding to a conclusion however in amongst the aftermath of both my parents' deaths in 2019 within three months of each other and the general consequences of Covid and Presbytery planning in late 2020 there emerged for me a real sense of Call to do something in God's ministry "That all led to the path towards Readership which I finally completed in August this year "Although the Call emerged in Fife in 2020 and the agents this time were Rev Jim Connolly and my wife there is no doubt that the late Rev John Weir Cook's question never really left me alone over 45 years and that the foundation stones for all this were laid in Henderson Church on the banks of the Kilmarnock Water a very long time ago "It's amazing how long some seeds take to germinate "My really warm thanks to all the churches who have helped and the myriad of people who made the Readership journey not just possible but joyful." Contact us