HEARTFELT farewells have been paid to a dedicated North Ayrshire priest on his retirement.

Sandy Montgomerie was thanked for his commitment to the church he has been a member of since birth.

On Sunday, November 22 at a Joint service of the North Ayrshire team in St Andrew’s Church, Ardrossan, regular attenders, who were able to attend within the current travel restrictions, said goodbye.

Sandy and his sister have been active members of St Andrew’s since their birth. He was instrumental in the running of a group for teenagers known as TAG (Teenage Action Group), with some members still regular attenders at the church with their children and grandchildren.

Other TAG members who have moved all over the UK or across the world have also made a point of visiting the church on their return home with many sharing fond memories of the group.

Sandy began his journey as an ordained person over 25 years ago. He was ordained priest and became a non-stipendiary priest within the North Ayrshire team and in 2017 he was made a Canon. His work in the team included his role locally in the Ardrossan Churches Group and with his interest in ecumenical actions he represented the diocese joining with Gothenburg in exchange visits.

For the past four years he has been the interim priest in charge and this is an unusual occurrence for a non-stipendiary priest but Sandy as usual said yes.

Eveline Gray said: “We have been incredibly lucky to have him in this role and he has carried out his duties with his quiet manner and humour. We hope he will enjoy his travels when travel restrictions are lifted and please come safely back to us.”

Sandy was presented with gifts by members of each of the team churches to wish him well in his retirement.