Special service in honour of the Queen
Funds raised will boost both church and charity
Heartfelt thanks have been expressed following a successful service in honour of Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year.
The uplifting event was held at Netherton Church near Bridge of Cally on Saturday, July 30.
People of all ages from across the community were present and the rural venue, which seats 120 people, was filled to capacity.
Perth and Kinross Council Provost Xander McDade, Alex Cairncross – one of the region’s deputy lord-lieutenants –
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, and Blairgowrie and Glens Councillor Bob Brawn were among the dignitaries present.
Prior to the service, the church’s restored tolling bell was sounded 70 times – once to mark each year of Her Majesty’s long reign.
Presided over by Rev Stephen Blakey, the service itself featured a variety of hymns, all sung with music from each nation of the UK.
There were also several readings and moments of prayer and reflection, as well as music under the direction of soprano Colleen Nicoll, pianist Andy Johnston and talented members of the Singing for Fun
Community Choir.
In addition, promising young bagpipers Jasper Airley and Finton Haworth, both members of the 30th Perthshire Strathardle Scouts, showcased their skills during what was a sunny afternoon.
A retiring collection in aid of the Queen’s Green Canopy Project and the Netherton Church building raised almost £1000.
Refreshments, including a special chocolate cake made and donated by Paul Bradford of Cakeflix at Kirkmichael’s Strathardle Lodge, were then enjoyed as special Jubilee badges were presented to
members of the local Beavers movement by Ms Cairncross.
And the event reached a spectacular crescendo with a Spitfire flypast by Iain Hutchison.
Netherton Church is administered by members of the Netherton Church Building Community Group.
Chair Ricky Wilson said: “The weather was in our favour and Netherton Church was at full capacity, which was wonderful. All age groups attended from the community.
“The retiring collection raised £935.50 to support the Queen’s Green Canopy
Project and Netherton Church.
“To those who donated, my deepest thanks to you. It was a special service and fitting tribute from us all to Her Majesty the Queen.
“It has been suggested that a service sheet be sent to Her Majesty and this has been mailed to Buckingham Palace with a covering letter from myself.”
Mr Wilson concluded by thanking all those who contributed to the success of the event.
It is hoped a portion of the proceeds will be used to plant trees in the local area.