Dunfermline peacocks granted Freedom of the City award

Dunfermline has awarded its first ever Freedom of the City award to a group of locals who have roamed the cities parks and streets for more than a century.

After being granted its long-awaited city status as part of the late queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022, the city decided that its peacocks should be the first residents to officially receive the honour.

Peacocks have been synonymous with the city since being introduced by philanthropist Henry Beveridge following a trip to India in 1905.

Since then, they have made Dunfermline their home and can often be seen wandering the High Street or taking a daytrip to local villages.

The Provost of Fife, Councillor Jim Leishman said the birds were responsible for families flocking to the area and in particular, Pittencrieff Park, where the Peacock Sanctuary is based.

Provost Leishman presenting scroll to Suzi Ross and Carlyn Cane from Peacocks in Pittencrieff Park Fife Council

The sanctuary was opened in 2016 and is staffed by volunteers and funded by public donations.

The Provost of Fife, Jim Leishman, said the honour was the “perfect accolade” to thank volunteers for their hard work.

Suzi Ross, lead peafowl warden, welcomed the honour and praised the volunteers.

She said: “The Freedom of the City has been something I have desired for a long time, and I am delighted that the birds have the recognition they deserve.

“They have been such a huge part of Dunfermline’s heritage and are much beloved by the community.

“Our volunteers are extremely dedicated, and we could not do what we do without their support or the unwavering love and support from the community.”