The way is now clear to make it official and grant Dunfermline's famous peacocks the freedom of the city - and the late Queen played a significant part.

It had long been thought that the beloved birds, residents of Pittencrieff Park for more than 100 years, already held the title.  

The Press asked the question last summer and Fife Council and local historians confirmed there was nothing in the archives or history books to say they do.

Provost Jim Leishman promised to investigate and at last week's full council meeting, following the award of city status last year by the Queen, it was agreed to give more powers to the City of Dunfermline area committee. 

In practice that means local councillors can decide - as long as it's ratified by two thirds of Fife Council - who can be awarded the title of Freedom of the City of Dunfermline.  

Dunfermline Press: The way is now clear to make it official and grant the Freedom of the City of Dunfermline to the famous peacocks.The way is now clear to make it official and grant the Freedom of the City of Dunfermline to the famous peacocks. (Image: Newsquest)

Cllr James Calder, convener of the area committee, said: "Local members have the opportunity to be involved in the process and I would not want to pre-empt any decision made by the committee.

“I have however been in touch with the council’s legal team to find out about the options.

“In the meantime I know the peacocks are much appreciated by local residents and we are looking at various other ways of supporting them, including improving their housing.”


READ MORE: Peacocks volunteers want justice after aviary attack


It's almost a year since the horrific attack on the aviary that left one peacock dead and another seriously injured. 

In the aftermath, as well as the shock and anger, there was a determination to help in some way and more than £16,000 was raised for repairs and improvements.

It showed the love and pride the city has for the birds and the Peacocks in Pittencrieff Park group said that a reminder of their elevated status would provide a boost as they try to move on after the aviary attack.

A spokesperson had told the Press: "I asked Jim Leishman about the freedom of the city as there's no certificate or key or anything that people can see.

"Getting it renewed and up and running again would be a good thing to do."

The peacocks have a long association with the Glen, stretching back to 1905 when philanthropist Henry Beveridge returned to Dunfermline from India and gifted the park its first birds.

Their numbers had dwindled but a safe haven was established in the park with dedicated volunteers helping to look after them, and help rear new chicks.