Last week in Parliament I raised the future of Wemyss Caves during a debate on Scotland’s Historic Environment. During my speech I highlighted the challenges facing the caves, including coastal erosion, whilst praising the work of the Save Wemyss Caves Society. 

These caves should be recognised as being of national importance. The story that they tell enriches the history of Fife’s coast and the communities that settled and traded there. These carvings can also connect modern generations to history in a way that textbooks can’t and for that reason it is important that they aren’t lost to the local area.

Speaking during the debate I drew attention to the natural heritage which, over the years, has been threatened by coastal erosion and vandalism. I also highlighted the work of Scottish Coastal Archaeology and the Problems of Erosion Trust who aim to digitally preserve the markings found in the cave.

I am pleased that a working group has been set up and that the Cabinet Secretary will be visiting the caves. I hope that going forward a sustainable solution can be found and the caves have a future.

The Save Wemyss Ancient Caves Society was founded in 1986 with the aim to protect and promote as much of the Wemyss Caves and their unique drawings as possible. I was delighted to raise the example of The Save Weymss Cave Society as a group of enthusiastic volunteers who deserve the recognition of their efforts.  Without their hard work and dedication there would have been every possibility that these caves would have been lost to the public for ever.

You can view my speech in the video below: