A BARRHEAD church held a special service on Sunday to ordain four new elders and recognise the contribution made by its existing Kirk session.

Special guest Reverend Dr George Whyte was invited to preach at St Andrew’s Parish Church and present certificates to those who had completed at least 25 years of service.

Principal Clerk of the Church of Scotland since 2017, Reverend Whyte is originally from the town, having grown up in St Andrew’s Church, and was a member of the 1st Barrhead Boys’ Brigade.

Reverend Tim Mineard, church minister, told the Barrhead News: “The service featured a ceremony of ordination for four new elders – Claire McKie, Fiona Mineard, Janice Rooney and Malison Ndau.

“In addition, Reverend Whyte handed out 18 long-service certificates to elders who have served a grand total of 728 years between them – an average of 40 years each.”

Following the service, some photographs were taken of the Kirk Session by Rhys Jackson and refreshments were served.