Kirkcaldy Cat Trail

The concept has been around for a while. A series of artworks dotted around a town or city, inviting the public to explore. When I heard that 17 giant cats were to be installed in the Kirkcaldy area, I instantly vowed to seek them out. Several reasons apply. The design was to be based on the famous Wemyss Ware painted pottery, produced in Fife since 1882. Following the circuit would be a fascinating experience in itself. Who doesn't love a good list ticking exercise? Lastly, I have been a cat lover all my days.

As I work in Kirkcaldy five days a week, I would inevitably run into some of the sculptures while simply going about my business. I had two proper cracks at the trail: one with Nicole and a second run with my mum as co-pilot. Between these expeditions we found all the kitties, bar the Thistle Cat at the Wemyss Pottery headquarters in Ceres, some distance from Kirkcaldy, and Sweetie the mobile moggy. More about her later. A map was published in paper and digital formats. While studying the trail layout, I realised there has to be some thought behind the process. The statues aren't just randomly plonked down anywhere.