Reverend Andrew Black is the new locum minister for Fairlie Parish Church and St Columba's Parish in Largs.

He takes over the reins from the outgoing Sandy McCallum, as a full vacancy is still sought for the linked churches.

Rev. Black will begin as locum on Advent Sunday (2 December).

Andrew recently retired from Irvine: Relief Bourtreehill where he ministered for 15 years.

He lives in Kilwinning and is a member of Kilwinning: Mansefield Trinity Parish Church.

Introducing himself in the Fairlie Parish Church newsletter, Andrew said: "I have been married to Isabel since 1974, for 44 years and counting.

We have three grown up children Vicky, Stephen and Claire and one granddaughter, Grace.

"I recently retired from ministry at the end of May this year after serving in Pollokshaws in Glasgow for just under 12 years.

"I then served in Beith High linked with Beith Trinity for five years and then Irvine; Relief Bourtreehill Irvine for just under 15 years.

"All being in order I look forward to sharing in worship and fellowship with the good people of Fairlie and St Columba's Parish in Largs."

The outgoing Rev. Sandy McCallum sung the praises of his successor.

He said: "When I started my locum stint in October last year I hoped that I would see it through until your new minster was safely inducted.

Alas it was not to be.

"However, I am confident that you will be well served and safe in the hands of my successor Rev Andy Black from Irvine.

"I have known Andy since our university days together, way back in the early 1980s."