Riders roar into Kirkcaldy’s Old Kirk

Kirkcaldy Old Kirk's 15th Century tower had a roaring 21st century experience last weekend when half a dozen RMA-Riders arrived at its foot for a short break in Kirk Wynd.

The bikers from the Royal Marines Association North Riders were on a ride out which had been planned to end at Spean Bridge Commando Memorial at the heart of the Highland countryside where the Commandos first trained some 80 years ago.

However, due to adverse weather, the group canged their plans and instead headed to the Fife Coast where one of their number, Richard Hardy invited the rest to take a break in his house beside the Kirk.

The role of the Royal Marines Association Riders Branch (RMA-Riders) is to maintain and promote esprit de corps and comradeship amongst all Royal Marines Motorcyclists and their families, past and present. The RMA-Riders cover all of the country and overseas to raise funds for Royal Marines Charities and keep members in touch with one another.

People will be able to climb inside the tower at the Old Kirk from tomorrow, weather permitting.

Meanwhile locals you can visit the 15th tower at the Kirk, newly out of lockdown, every weekend from tomorrow (Friday, July 24), to climb, weather permitting, the old stone steps to the parapet walk with its magnificent panoramic views over the town and the River Forth out to sea.

Entry is free but donations towards the restoration fund are very welcome. Because of coronavirus precautions, all access is led by a guide and only one family group or two individuals can go up at one time.

Hygiene precautions are in place and people will be asked to stay two metres behind the guide at all times.

Weather permitting, the tower tours will be open on Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 10.30am to 3pm.

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