On Saturday 28th March, Carl Irvine, our minister, introduced Roddy Matthews, fiddle, and Garry Alexander, accordion, to an audience in St Andrew’s Church of over 170 people at the beginning of a fantastic afternoon of music. For 2 hours Roddy and Garry played the very best of Scottish music and also led folk in a great sing along which included a variety of songs. It was an afternoon of rousing music by two brilliant musicians and appreciated by everyone present.

Carl gave a well deserved vote of thanks before the audience made their way to the Old Hall and Old Chapel for coffee, teas, sandwiches and home bakes.

Of course such a successful afternoon is only achieved by the input of many volunteers: Mo Vernal and Pat Wink plus all the other dedicated helpers in the kitchen; the ladies, from within St Andrew’s and those who are not church members, who donated their homebakes; Ralph Green who organised the car parking in his usual efficient way; and Pete Milne the sound and visuals’ expert. But, this event could not have happened without our indefatigable Social Convenor, Molly Conn. She sells the vast majority of tickets and keeps a close eye on every aspect of the organisation. We are also grateful to Molly for her one to one contacts within the musical world—over the years she has built up a considerable list of well known and highly respected fiddlers, accordionists, pianists and singers.

St Andrew’s thanks everyone involved in the success of the afternoon.

The event brought in £1,630.00 which we are most grateful for but the event is more than about raising money. The main focus is getting the local community together to enjoy wonderful music, delicious refreshments and, most important of all, a FUN FILLED afternoon.

Kit  

The Candlelight Concert held in the church in May 2026 was a tremendous success. Over 450 people attended across two performances, enjoying a wonderful instrumental tribute to Coldplay.

The church was aglow with hundreds of candles (see photo), creating a magical atmosphere that delighted everyone present. Such was the popularity of the event that plans have been made to host further candlelight concerts in the future. These will take place on the following dates:

Friday 11th September 2026:  “Queen & Elton John”

Saturday 30th January 2027:  “Fleetwood Mac”.