Entering the church from the High Street, you might have noticed the smart new notice board and finger-post just behind the railings. These replace the rather delapidated wooden boards and give the church a more welcoming and up to date entrance.

Chairman of the Property committee John Hill is seen here beside the new board, which has frequently been a subject of debate on the committee. In fact John remembers the issue of replacement being discussed 20 or 30 years ago, although it must be said that some of the delay is due to planning permission rather than indecisive committee members !

As in previous years, a series of short lunchtime services with different speakers has been arranged during Lent. These will take place on Tuesdays at 12.30pm, starting on 28 Feb. More information about each service will be available in the 'Coming soon' events calendar, and the church will be open for quiet reflection beforehand.

A 10-session course is starting on 25 Jan, for anyone interested in deepening their faith. The course is called 'Come as you are' and is aimed at those already familiar with the basics and who would welcome the opportunity to think more about their faith. The course is a good preparation for Methodist confirmation, but is open to everyone whether or not they have been confirmed or intend to be. It will be run by Rev. Clive McKie and Rev. Sheila Purdy

Shoeboxes filled and decorated by members of the congregation for Operation Christmas Child were collected and dedicated during the morning service, which was led by Rev. Sheila Purdy. The boxes will now be passed to the local OCC collection point, and eventually distributed to children overseas.