IT has been part of the local community for centuries – now Cardross Parish Church is preserving more snapshots of life in the here-and-now for future generations to enjoy.

Members of the church’s community recently turned out as items were added to its time capsule, which is to be sealed and not required to be opened until 2050.

All but two of the village’s groups submitted items for inclusion from the year 2000 onwards, including Cardross Parish Church itself.

Among the items added from the parish are pictures of the 40th anniversary service of the late Andrew Scobie, who died in 2010 after serving the church for 45 years.

There are also images of the design and installation of Rev Scobie’s memorial stained glass windows in 2012, Reverend Maggie McArthur arriving in 2015 and a host of other events – including the broadcasting of online services during the height of Covid-enforced lockdowns.

Ms McArthur, current minister of Cardross Parish Church, said: “People always find looking back such fun as they remember what happened in years gone by and enjoy seeing themselves in younger days – especially the children who are now grown up.

“The importance of the time capsule was, and still is, to capture a snapshot in time of all the groups and activities connected with the village and the church.

"It has been interesting to find that many of them still exist but also encouraging that new ventures have begun.

“We now have the Village Hub in the church hall which offers a welcome place for folk to meet and eat. CardrossCAN is another new group which offers advice and help about climate matters and energy efficiency and so much more. And Friends of Geilston Garden have highlighted the importance and raised the profile of the garden and house.”

Ms McArthur added: “I commend all who are involved in these new and existing groups and wish them continued success. The exciting aspect is thinking what village life will be like in 2050 and who will be around to witness the unearthing of the time capsule.

"As a church we feel privileged to be part of village life and are glad to offer facilities to the benefit of the whole community.”