An island congregation has been surprised by its success in an award scheme promoting environmental issues.
Members of Westray Parish Kirk in Orkney submitted an application for a silver award under the Eco-Congregation Scotland programme, but judges were so impressed they were awarded the gold instead.
Assessors described the congregation’s activities as “amazing and inspirational”.
The gold award recognises congregations that have developed a long-term commitment to promoting environmental issues as an integral part of their congregational life.
Westray members have helped other churches in Orkney to install renewable energy heating and energy conservation measures in their buildings.
Local Eco Congregation coordinator Alasdair McVicar said the award is a source of great pride for the congregation.
Parish minister Iain MacDonald added: “It’s lovely to have something to celebrate collectively, but these awards should never be seen as something to stick on the wall so we can sit back and admire them but as an incentive to us all to maintain the high standards and to build on them”.
