A consultation being run by Fife Council is seeking comments on the removal of payphones identified by BT as being little used, including boxes in Foodieash, Cupar Muir, Craigrothie and Letham.

Conservative MSP Ted Brocklebank and the Tories' prospective MP candidate in North East Fife, Miles Briggs, have urged residents to fight to save rural telephone boxes.

They are concerned about the impact of closures, particularly in areas where mobile phone reception is poor.

"If we are to save these local payphones we need to kick up a fuss," said Mr Briggs.

"The removal of public telephone boxes could have serious repercussions for rural and coastal communities.

"In an emergency situation they could make the difference between life and death."

Mr Brocklebank said people should respond directly to Fife Council and the planning department would then collate all submissions and draw conclusions as to how council wished to respond.

The consultation period ends on July 2 and comments received after that date will not be accepted

People wanting to object to the removal of local payphones should write to: Head of Local Services, Fife Council, New City House, 1 Edgar Street, Dunfermline KY12 7EP.

Payphones in north east Fife targeted for closure are: Main Street, Foodieash; Cupar Muir; Tarvit Drive, Cupar; Ceres Road, Craigrothie; Main Street, Guardbridge; New Gilston; Blebo Craigs; Lucklawhill, Balmullo; School Brae, Letham; Rosselm Cott, Auchtermuchty; Main Street, Kingskettle; Burnside, Gateside; Brunton; Kirkton of Balmerino; Kilmany; Banknowe Drive, Tayport; Easter Pitcorthie Holdings, St Monans.