Both St Andrews and Elie have once again been accredited with David Bellamy’s top gold award for conservation whilst St Monans has maintained its silver award status.

New for 2018/19, St Monans has joined Elie in receiving the much coveted Honey Bee award plus a very special Hedgerow Badge, which is only granted to parks that ensure that their hedgerows are managed in a way to attract and sustain wildlife.

In addition, David Bellamy’s much sought-after Wildflower Habitat badge has been awarded to Elie Holiday Park.

Abbeyford Leisure’s holiday parks have been recognised as a haven for wildlife as their active programme of planting indigenous trees, shrubs, plants and flowers and careful management of wild areas and hedgerows encourages flora and fauna to flourish. Meanwhile, their keen association with environmental organisations such as the Fife Coast & Countryside Trust, Butterfly Conservation Scotland, the Fife Biodiversity Partnership and Scottish Natural Heritage has been applauded.

"Many parks like these have created wildlife wonderlands, and I think it's time they were given deserved recognition for their big commitment," said Professor Bellamy.