KILBIRNIE Salvation Army is celebrating 125 years of transforming lives with a weekend of activities.

Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams, the territorial leaders of the Salvation Army in the UK and Ireland, will lead the celebrations on Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21 at the Newton Street church.

Commissioner Clive said: “Looking back through the years it’s fascinating to see the transformation of Kilbirnie and the Salvation Army.

“But while many things have changed since our early beginnings, the Salvation Army remains at the heart of the community to help people overcome the very same social problems that existed 125 years ago. The anniversary weekend is an opportunity to recognise that incredible work.”

The Salvation Army’s mission work in Kilbirnie was led by Captain Polly Tantram and Lieutenant Joughin. The first church building was made of corrugated metal and nicknamed the ‘tin hut’.

Lieutenant Wendy Leisk, who leads the Kilbirnie church and is chaplain at the George Steven Centre, said: “We are looking forward to the weekend and the chance to thank God and the local community because without them there would be no Salvation Army.”