The Special Constabulary is working alongside community police for the operation.

Officers are patrolling the park on mountain bikes for the benefit of the 400,000 visitors who flock to it each year.

Chief Inspector Alex Duncan said, “The next few weeks will see extreme demands being placed on Fife Constabulary with its commitment to assist in policing the G8 summit at Gleneagles and the Open Golf Championship at St Andrews.

“The assistance from the Special Constables during this particularly busy period is gratifying, and will allow us to maintain a visible and reassuring presence in an area I hope will benefit from it.”

Community Inspector Ken Stickings said, “While Lochore Meadows is generally a very safe and enjoyable place to visit, problems do arise from time to time involving crimes of dishonesty such as thefts from parked cars, as well as isolated incidents of disorder often related to visitors drinking too much alcohol.”

Operation Meadow Watch is supported by local organisations and businesses, including Shell UK and ExxonMobil at Mossmorran, Lochore Meadows Country Park and the Leslie Bike Shop.

Inspector Stickings added, “Sponsorship from Shell and ExxonMobil was kindly provided to purchase two first class mountain bikes for use by police officers during the operation.

“This will allow officers to gain access to the many off-road paths and wooded areas in and around the meadows.

“Staff at the meadows, who are trained in numerous outdoor activities including cycling, have been able to provide police officers with a base in the park centre as well as giving expert training in off-road cycling skills and cycle maintenance.”