Fife crowned UK toilet royalty as Kingdom cleans up at 'washroom oscars'

It is already Scotland’s home of golf, the fish and chip capital of the country and the last remaining kingdom in the UK.

But now, Fife is flush with yet another accolade after the region’s public toilets were crowned among the best in Britain.

Those looking to spend a penny have an array of award-winning facilities to choose from after the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust (FCCT) cleaned up at the 35th annual “washroom Oscars” in Birmingham.

The Trust ended 18 years of hurt by bringing toilets home for Scotland after claiming the overall title of UK winner at the Loo of the Year ceremony, also lifting gongs in smaller categories including the beach, car park and eco-friendly sections.

FCCT head of operations Robbie Blyth said he was “delighted” with the victory, but added the Trust was refusing to rest on its laurels as it goes for back-to-back trophies next year.

“Our success in these prestigious awards reflects the hard work, commitment and dedication of our small team,” he said.

“Their job was especially challenging last year thanks to the great summer weather and popularity of staycations

“This is our 11th Loo of the Year awards, but we won’t sit back and relax. We’re always working to improve public toilet provision in Fife and look forward to opening a new toilet block at Elie Ruby Bay in time for spring.”

Highland Council was the last Scottish victor at the awards, lifting the trophy in 2004 – two years after East Lothian Council.

Since then, winners have been as varied as Brighton and Hove Council, supermarket giant Asda, fast food goliath McDonald’s and pub behemoth JD Wetherspoon.

FCCT manages 15 public toilets across the region, with the Harbourmaster’s House in Dysart, Craigmead car park and Elie beach all garnering individual awards.

The trust’s chair, Stephen Carter, added: “Our full-time and seasonal staff work really hard to maintain facilities that add to the enjoyment of the many thousands of locals and tourists who visit our places every year.

“I’m delighted they have received these accolades.”