The congregation of Clydebank United Free Church joined with others to mark the occasion on Sunday (October 26), bringing to an end a church which could trace its roots back to the tail end of the 19th century.

Dwindling numbers had led to a decision being taken not to continue but fond memories were shared at the service as members reflected on happier times.

Reverend John Fulton, general secretary of the United Free Church of Scotland, gave an address at the closing service.

Rev Fulton, who grew up in the church’s congregation, told the Post: “I first remember coming to the building in North Bank Street when we moved to Faifley in 1958. My father had been involved in the congregation before he was married.

“It is easy to go into a nostalgia trip as I look round the building and think of the different people who used to come along — with the seats where they usually sat. In the late 1950s the congregation had about 220 members so the place was busy on a Sunday.” During its 80 years, ministers included the Reverends Ferguson McDonald, John Paterson and Elizabeth Barr, as well as Robert Paterson and Andrew McMillan.

Rev Fulton reflected on the many people who had been baptised, married and ordained as elders during the church’s existence. He paid tribute to those who had been involved with the church, from those serving on the kirk session to Sunday school teachers and the Women’s Association.

The 61-year-old added: “We look back and we give thanks to God for the many who have been involved, for their willingness to give of themselves to further the work and witness of this congregation.

“For as long as I have known the building, a text has hung in the pulpit with words from John 12.21 — ‘Sir, we would see Jesus’. This has been there as a reminder to all who have preached that people have come to meet Jesus and find out more about him.

“In every generation that’s what the church is called to be about — helping people see Jesus.”