HELENSBURGH'S Messy Church group said a fond farewell to Anne and the Rev David Cook at their most recent gathering as the couple leave to enjoy their retirement.

Anne has been telling the stories and leading the singing, and Rev David Cook has been taking the registration and leading the worship, at Messy Church since it began seven years ago.

Elizabeth Lambert, one of the Messy Church leaders, said: "Everyone at Messy Church is sad to see them leave and we cannot thank them enough for all the effort they put into making Messy Church such a wonderful experience for so many families."

The Cooks' retirement does not mean the end of Messy Church, though, as they have handed over the reins to the new Helensburgh URC minister, the Rev Mitchell Bunting - also known as 'Bungie' – and to Kevin Boak, a lay preacher at St Michael's Chuirch in the town.

'Bungie' has previous experience of leading children's worship ministry, and promises to bring as much fun as possible into every session.

Messy Church, as its name suggests, is messy! The children love any craft involving lots of paint, glue and glitter. The most popular craft is always the food craft which usually involves lots of icing.

After the crafts there is a lunch, which often includes pizza, baked potatoes, baked beans, salads, soup and fruit – all lovingly prepared by Iris and Vera in the kitchen.

Around 50 people usually come along to the monthly sessions – it's great fun, it's free and everyone is welcome to come along. The only rule is that children must be accompanied by an adult.

Messy Church happens on the last Saturday of the month in Helensburgh URC – the next session is on Saturday, October 28, so look for posters around town and the banner outside. Contact Elizabeth on (01436) 679565 for more information.