ST Margaret’s Church in Dalry enjoyed a pleasant occasion recently when long-service certificates were handed out to Elders.

And together, all of them have now notched up 390 years of Eldership.

Six of them reached the 30 years milepost this year and four more reached the 40 years this time.

Most impressively, Robert Ward, who was on holiday during the presentation, has reached 50 years of service, in 2017. His certificate was presented to him later by the Rev Marion Howie.

The awards were made to Alastair Todd, 30 years; Robert Strahorn, 30 years; Jean Gilbert, 30 years; Lindsay Paterson, 30 years; Roy Davidson, 30 years; Hugh Aird, 30 years. Jim Hodge 40 years; Agnes Gibb, 40 years; Gibb Dunlop, 40 years; Robert Cuthbertson, 40 years.

Rev Marion Howie pointed out the rather startling arithmetic to the congregation.

Three hundred and ninety years of Eldership truly is a remarkable achievement.