Ming's gone, but do we smell goodwill?

However, campaigners believe Scottish Water should now make a gesture of goodwill, given the community’s role in bringing the stench under control.

Pete Meldrum, chairman of Friends of Levenmouth Action Group (FLAG) said: “I think they should give something back to the community through a common good fund.

“A lot of people have been affected by this and had to demonstrate, all because of this nuisance. It’s not compensation we are looking for, it’s an acknowledgement, but they are very reluctant to come forward. That’s a little bit of a slap in the face.“

During previous stakeholders meetings and emails with Scottish Water, FLAG has continually pushed the issue.

Scottish Water maintained, as a public body it could not make a financial gift and had already contributed to a national school initiative in Leven.

“I disagree with that - the waste water treatment plant is run by a PFI company,” said Mr Meldrum

“Scottish Water shouldn’t be saying ‘We’ve solved the problem in the Levenmouth area’. They would never have solved it without the help of the local community monitoring the situation and putting up with the smell for years.”

Cllr Tom Adams said another stakeholders’ meeting would be scheduled to discuss the issue.

He commented: “We would definitely be looking for a commitment rather than a one-off payment; something that would benefit the whole Levenmouth community rather than a single group or organisation.

“I appreciate everything that Scottish Water has done over the last couple of years - they listened to what the people had to say.

“I think a contribution to the community as a goodwill gesture would be more than welcome.”

A Scottish Water spokesman said: “In providing essential services to customers, we are committed to working closely with communities and, when we have been carrying out work, leaving a positive legacy.

“We are therefore always happy to listen to and discuss ideas about ways in which we can support local initiatives.

“We also run employee volunteering and education programmes, which help have a positive impact on communities around Scotland – including Fife.”