FIVE long-serving choristers have waved goodbye to a Haddington church.

The youngsters left Knox Academy this summer, with plans to head to university, college, work or to travel.

A spokesman for St Mary’s Parish Church said: “Kara Singh, Phoebe Hayman, Robin Bellamy, Emma Wylie and Ailsa Wrinn have all sung with us since they were about eight or nine years old right up until S6.

“Their talent, support and dedication has been greatly appreciated and has been an inspiration to many of the younger choristers.

“We wish them all well in their future studies and travels in life.”

Each of the teenagers was presented with a copy of Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, September 2.

Meanwhile, the church has also said goodbye to Cole Bendall, the director of choirs, who has stood down for health reasons.

The spokesman added: “Cole was only with us a short time but what an amazing time, with everyone benefiting from his marvellous musical talent. We will miss him and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Anyone who is interested in further information about the choristers and choir at St Mary’s can email choristers@stmaryskirk.co.uk

Meanwhile, a specially-composed piece of music rung out at the church as part of the Haddington 700 celebrations on August 25.

A peal of 5,700 changes, which was specially composed for a new bell-ringing method named Haddington 700 Surprise Major, was rung by members of the Scottish Association of Change Ringers.

The peal band included two members from the St Mary’s band of ringers.

Taking three hours and 21 minutes to complete, the peal provided a backdrop of celebratory sound to the events of the day.