CAFFEINE ensured spirits were high at the United Reformed Church coffee morning as dozens of people tucked into a heavenly selection of cakes and treats amid new-look surroundings, writes David Carnduff.

Spirits were high on a fine spring morning as the public dropped in to sample the goodies on offer from members the United Reformed Church last Saturday.

The fundraising event provided the perfect opportunity for congregation members to show off their new-look hall and kitchen which has recently been refurbished at a cost of around £5,000, and also helped boost the church’s fabric fund.

Church secretary Rena Hannah told the News: “Everyone was impressed by the fresh look inside – with one guy joking it was so bright he needed in sunglasses.

“Work has taken place inside and out and we have a lot of new equipment in the kitchen with new fridges and a nice new big table top.

“This was the first coffee morning we have held since the work was done so we were pleased with the positive reaction.”

Rena said this was set to be a milestone year for the church, with new minister the Rev Andy Branstoun coming from the Manchester area in July.

She said: “We have not had our own minister for two and a half years so we are very pleased to be welcoming Andy later in the summer.

“In the meantime, retired minister Rev Gordon Smith from Paisley, formerly of the United Reformed Church in Stewarton, will continue to take our services.”

Rena said their steady and faithful members were helping the church to thrive, with membership currently standing at 75.