BEACHES at Limekilns and Charlestown will remain closed to the public until further notice after Monday's oil spill.

A specialist firm is in the process of removing approximately 500 tonnes of contaminated material from the area.

The source of the spillage is still to be determined and the popular spots have now been closed to allow investigations and a clean-up to take place.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are carrying out sample tests, and said the incident appears to be an isolated one.

Fife Council have said that the beaches will remain closed to ensure public safety.

A spokesperson said: "The affected beaches and car park will remain closed to the public over the weekend, and until further notice.

"This is to ensure public safety and to protect the environment.  We thank residents and visitors for their patience as the round-the-clock clean-up work continues.

"The Fife Costal Path is being diverted, at the affected area, along adjacent streets. Walkers can pick up the main path again once beyond the affected area.

"The clean-up plan of action is being implemented, with the most contaminated areas being remedied first.

"A specialist firm is in the process of removing disposing of approximately 500 tonnes of contaminated material from the area.

"Thankfully, there has been minimum impact on birds and wildlife.

"Sample testing by SEPA is still underway, and investigations into the source of the pollution are ongoing."