The Scottish Coal Carrying Championships in Kelty have been hailed a "fantastic event" by the event organisers.

Michael Boyle said a total of 80 men and women took part in the two main races, while around 70 kids and 14 mascots also joined in on the fun, although there was only one entry for this year's inaugural wife carrting contest.

Michael has not lost hope that the wife carrying race could become a success - with potential participants already looking to sign up for next year.

Dunfermline Press: A combined 80 men and women took part in the main races. A combined 80 men and women took part in the main races. (Image: David Wardle.)

He said: "It was a fantastic event as always, the Kelty community and visitors turned out in force.

"We got a big crowd and a beautiful day for it as well.

"We had two fantastic live bands but the focus was on the athletes and competitors, whether it was the kids, ladies or men.

"We want to put Kelty on the map and want it to be associated with anything which touched the lives of miners."

The winner of the men's coal race was David Winiarski, with a time of five minutes and one second, and first place in the women's event went to Stacey Lockhart, with a time of five minutes and four seconds.

There was also the return of the village's flower show after a 60 year break - with competitions for best allotments and gardens, as well as a display of mini gardens and treats such as scones and jam.

Michael says next year will be "bigger and better" when the coal race celebrates its 25th year.

Dunfermline Press: This year's event marked the 24th Scottish Coal Carrying Championships. This year's event marked the 24th Scottish Coal Carrying Championships. (Image: David Wardle.)

He hopes to put on a special celebration to mark the occasion while sponsors are already lining up to help. He gave thanks this year to National Pride and Fife Council.

The event also comprised the Robert Stewart Draughts Championship and Eck Campbell Dominoes Trophy.

The 2024 event has been provisionally set for August 31 - it's traditionally held on the last Saturday of the month - but that date could be subject to change.

Anyone interested in getting involved should contact Michael on michael@scottishcoalcarryingchampionships.co.uk or by calling 07715 304798.