Pastor crowned Local Hero

A WELL-KNOWN local clergyman whose church has brought community facilities to Cumbernauld’s town centre has scooped a £1000 cash windfall for the premises.

Pastor Alan Welsh who heads up Cornerstone Christian Fellowship can now consider himself a Local Hero after winning an award of that same name from restaurant chain Brewers Fayre.

Alan was nominated by his colleague and friend Mary McNeil, who praised him for his excellent leadership and ongoing dedication to the community business and learning facility, which also incorporates a popular cafe.

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Members were refused a bank loan to build the centre which is in the former County Bingo premises – so they raised the requisite £300,000 themselves

Since its opening in 2009, members want to expand its remit and felt that the facility needed a computer room. This dream will now become a reality thanks to the cash.

This came their way after Pastor Welsh’s friend and colleague Mary McNeil decided to nominate him for the award.

“I nominated Alan because he is tireless in his work for the Cornerstone House project, going beyond the call of duty to keep funds and activity flowing,” said Mary who comes from Wishaw.

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“It’s a great achievement which will enhance the options for local residents, many of whom are isolated, in need of training or looking for support while they take a course.”

Brewers Fayre manager David McQuiston said: “We are delighted to award this bursary to Alan. He has done so much to help the community and he is a real hero in our eyes.

“We hope this money will help him continue his hard work.”

Delighted but modest Alan said the award was for everyone involved with the church.

“I head up the organisation but this award is really recognising all of the volunteers and the work that they have been doing,” he said.

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“A lot of hours have gone in to bringing this vision to life.”

And Alan added: “It means that we can offer people help with whatever they might need, whether it’s putting a CV together or just doing some research.”