Congregation cosy, thanks to builder

A housebuilder has warmed the hearts of a Christian congregation.

Bellway stepped in to help find funds for heating improvements for the Cornerstone church halls in Bishopton after the building’s boiler reached the end of its days.

The company, which has a new development in the village, rallied support from contractors and supporters and raised £1,100 towards the cost of replacing the old gas-fired boiler.

The Cornerstone dates back to 1899 when it was known as the Erskine Halls.

It was completely modernised in 2007 and is now home to the Boys’and Girls’ Brigade, church activities and independent clubs such as Zumba and Out-of-School Care.

Ian Earnshaw, property convener, Bishopton Parish Church, said:“The Cornerstone is very well used and any improvements to the building will be of benefit to the whole community.

“The church welcomes new residents of all ages and looks forward to building a vibrant community in Bishopton.

“We are very grateful to Bellway for galvanising all the contractors in the area into action and the money takes us closer to our fundraising target.”

Companies who donated to the fund include STSC, Blythe Construction, H&M Cleaning, Rowan Timber, Taranto Ltd, Jordan McDermott, Albar and BS Plumbing.

Andy Borland, head of construction at Bellway Homes (Scotland West), said: “When we heard about the boiler situation we were very keen to see what we could do to help as we have heard from local people how important the Cornerstone is to them.

“I would like to thank our amazing contractors for their kind donations .“