Dunfermline's World War 1 Memorial has won an area title in the Royal British Legion Scotland Best Kept War Memorial Competition 2026.

The memorial won the Large Community without Garden category, covering entries from across Fife, Tayside and Perthshire. The success means it will now go forward to the national stage of the competition later this year.

The award recognises the high standard of care and maintenance of the memorial, which is supported by local volunteers, veterans and Fife Council staff.

Jim Leggat OBE, Deputy Lieutenant, said: "This award is a tremendous achievement and a fitting recognition of the dedication shown by everyone involved in caring for Dunfermline's World War One Memorial. The memorial is an important place of remembrance for our community, and it is encouraging to see the hard work of volunteers, veterans and council staff recognised in this way.

“We now look forward to national judging later this summer."

The award comes less than a year after Fife Council completed extensive repair and refurbishment work to preserve the memorial for future generations. The restored memorial was rededicated by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on 26 September 2025, marking its centenary year.

Cllr James Calder, Convener of Fife Council, said: "We’re proud to see the Dunfermline World War One Memorial recognised as an area winner in this prestigious competition. The memorial provides a lasting tribute to those who served and sacrificed, and it is important that it remains a place of dignity and reflection for current and future generations.

"This success reflects the strong partnership working between local volunteers, veterans' organisations and council teams who help care for this important landmark. I congratulate everyone involved and wish them every success in the national judging stage."

National judging of the area-winning memorials is expected to take place later this month.