A LARGS priest who has been an actor, festival organiser and Dr Doolittle is saying goodbye to the town this week.

The Rev Canon Gordon Fyfe of St Columba's Episcopal in Largs has been appointed Rector of St Margaret's in Glasgow in early 2021.

Gordon, 57, has been minister since June 2009 when he took over from Rev Peter Potter and has introduced popular events such as the animal blessings - while starring in local amateur dramatic productions.

Gordon is originally from the south side of Glasgow and believes returning to the city means he is turning full circle in his life.

He said: "I left school to work in the civil service and was heavily involved in the church as a BB officer and then as a Sunday school teacher. My minister recognised that I could be a clergyman and I went to Aberdeen University and studied for a Divinity Honours Degree. I graduated on my 30th birthday in 1993.

"I served a three year probation in Ayr before taking on my first charge at St Paul's and St John's in Airdrie before moving to Largs."

Gordon said he will miss the stunning setting - and opening the doors to spectacular views of the Clyde.

One of the popular things introduced at the church is the annual aminal blessing, which Gordon always participated in.

He said: "They were successful as they reached out to people who would not normally go to church and emphasised the importance of the relationship between owner and pet, particularly for people who live alone."

Gordon also served as a former member of the Viking Festival committee and says it was wonderful watching the event grow in stature to be named among The Guardian's top 20 festivals in Europe.

He takes up his new calling in Newlands at the end of the month.

The Bishop will liaise with the vestry and a vacancy committee will elect a new priest for St Columba's Episcopal.

Gordon explained: "I feel it is the right time to move on. I will be going to a bigger congregation and was always keen to return to some urban ministry work. As I am from Glasgow, it seemed a natural step to take."

Gordon told the News he will treasure his time in the town and spoke of how he loved getting involved in every aspect of local life.

He added:"I enjoyed being part of the amateur dramatic scene and was involved in a few of the Largs Amateur Operatic Society productions and did my first play with Attic Players too. I played the Monsignor in Sister Act for my final role - I think they picked me for the part as I had all the clothes!"

Gordon says he is looking forward to be closer to his family in the city but he says he will always make a point of returning to Largs.

He added: "I will certainly return for an ice cream cone from Nardini's when lockdown is over."