David Osborne, of Invertiel Farm, insists he is 'more than happy' to give a substantial section of his 400-acre estate to the local authority for free so it can build a 21st century facility in the town.

The surprise announcement was made at a public meeting on Tuesday night as residents and sports groups expressed anger at the Council's proposal to build a replacement swimming pool on a 166-space car park in the town centre.

Responding to frustration that the site was too small to build further facilities, the farmer stood up to offer his land.

He said: "I would give my land if it was what was suitable and I am serious about that. If it is of use then I am more than happy to enter talks."

Invertiel Farm sits in the south west of Kirkcaldy, next to the golf course, on the approach road from Kinghorn. Sections have already been identified by a housing company for development - an issue Mr Osborne insists would 'not be a problem'.

Speaking after Monday's meeting he told The Press he believed a sports centre in the south west could complement projects proposed for the area - a part of Kirkcaldy which is rapidly growing.

Having lived in Kirkcaldy all his life, he believes the town has 'a lot going for it', but he has watched it 'go down hill' over the years and is now watching it go 'even further'.

Read the full story in this week's Fife Free Press.