ONE OF A K
The history of one of Paisley’s most stunning buildings is being celebrated at a new visitor centre.
Paisley Methodist Church marked its 111th anniversary with the opening of a Heritage Room, and this also marked the completion of its new roof.
Amazingly, Paisley’s is the last Methodist Central Hall in Scotland still operating as a church.
And to celebrate the opening of the room and the completion of the building work, there was a service of thanksgiving.
The Heritage Room was opened by the Rev Dr Elizabeth Adam, a former minister at Paisley Methodist Central Hall and the instigator of the Heritage Project.
The new roof has secured the future of this B-listed building, which was built in 1908 through public subscription.
Working in conjunction with other partners this has allowed the congregation to open its building for a wider range of uses for the benefit of people in the community.
The Heritage Project is part of the legacy from the new roof.
There is an exhibition space creating more opportunity for tourists and visitors to see the interior of the premises.
The church’s David Jackson said: “The exhibition includes pictures and documents that people can view.
“The Heritage Room will be open at Halloween, the fireworks and at the Christmas lights switch-on.”
It is hoped the resource will be able to open to the public on a regular basis.
“We are looking for volunteers,” Mr Jackson added.
“They should call Margaret Jackson on 0141 561 2113 or email ma.jackson@ ntlworld.com”
Archivists are also being sought.
The new roof cost £440,000 and the church is grateful to its funders The Heritage Fund, Baird Trust, Viridor, Fife Environmental Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, National Churches Trust, Scotland’s Churches Trust, Methodist Heritage and its own congregation.