Great day had by all at Giffnock United Church

Special guest Kirsten Oswald MP was on hand to cut the yellow ribbon on the new garden — a project kicked off by Giffnock United’s former minister, Reverend Lesley Moseley — and councillor Vincent Waters and local Scouts also attended.

Reverend Jake Tatton told The Extra: “The garden is now open to all residents who are warmly encouraged to come and chill out, eat their lunch or just have a wee look.

“It features several small, themed garden areas, including the rather zen ‘white box’. There are also places to sit, tables for your piece, wind chimes to listen to as autumn sets in, a beautiful mosaic and a mural of a scene from Rouken Glen — both painstakingly crafted by staff and clients at Leverndale Hospital.”

Live music was provided by Thornliebank minister Rev Mike Gargrave and organist Graham Stokes, with pancakes and home baking for scoffing.

Rev Tatton added: “The sanctuary was also opened to the public, where banners made by women in the church over almost 30 years were on display.

“We had face painting, info stalls and a collage (or rogues gallery!) of pictures from the church’s history.

“The church’s choir group gave up their meeting room for the day for children’s arts and crafts, and in the back hall, there was a great five-aside tournament — congratulations to the team from 145th Glasgow Scouts for their resounding victory!

“A great day was had by all, and we’re now looking forward to the church’s next fayre, set for December.”