Are you a Falkirk Bairn?

I am a Bairn and lived in Bainsford in my early life. I have also been an avid supporter of Falkirk Football Club all my life.

Have you always attended Falkirk Old and St. Modans Church?

I was not brought up with a church connection and as a youngster all of my spare time was taken up playing football!

When did you join the Church?

In my teens after I met Janette I started to attend Falkirk Old Parish Church, subsequently joining the church when Mr Paterson was minister. Over these years there have been five ministers and each has brought something different and something special to the church.

When did you become an Elder?

I became an Elder in 1974. I see my role as an Elder to be as regular an attendee at Church as is possible and to be involved both in the work of the Kirk Session and of the Church in general. This includes regular visits to the members in my District.

Is it hard to keep in contact with all your members when you have such a big District?

It is much easier now that I am retired. I always like to spend time with each person I visit although this can be difficult when people are out when I first call. I really enjoy this regular contact with the members in my District.

Can you tell me something about yourself?

I am married to Janette and have one son, one daughter and two lovely grand-daughters. I worked in BP for many years and I am now enjoying a more leisurely way of life in my retirement. I have always been a regular supporter of Falkirk Football Club and also play bowls. One of my pleasures is the time I spend with my two little grand-daughters.

What does being a member of this church mean to you?

It means a great deal as I have so many friends in the church community and find the church a welcoming and friendly place. I attend church as regularly as I can as the Sunday service gives me a lift which carries me through the following week. Over the years I have been an Elder, I have served on most of the Church committees and each has given me a sense of purpose in my belief.

What would you like to see changing in the church?

I think we have changed a great deal in our church over recent years and as a result of the refurbishment. I would like to see the facilities we have used for organisations of all ages as I think this helps to draw people into the church family.

How do you see the church in the future?

Now that the church has up to date facilities like power point and more flexibility of seating, I would like to see the building being used by other groups from the community. It has an ideal position in the town centre as a meeting place.