NEARLY 100 members and friends of Tranent Parish Church gathered on Saturday afternoon for an informal farewell to their minister, the Rev Jan Gillies.

Mrs Gillies, who has been minister of the church in Tranent for nearly six years, is due to retire at the end of April.

The ceilidh, which took place in the church hall on Church Street, was an opportunity for the many well-wishers to come together for an afternoon of fun and enjoyment, including games and crafts for the children present.

The event was organised by a group of church members, led by Dr Linda Ingham, whose sons helped provide the music.

Many of the participants also contributed items of entertainment, and all present enjoyed the generous spread of food provided by ladies of the congregation.

The afternoon included a guest performance on the mandolin by the Rev Dr Robin Hill, minister of the neighbouring congregation of Gladsmuir and Longniddry, who will shortly take on the role of interim moderator during the vacancy.

During the course of the afternoon, Mrs Gillies and her husband Dave were presented with a cake decorated in the shape of the communion table in Tranent Parish Church.

This work of art, which was crafted by Billy Nisbet, beadle of the church and former baker in Tranent, included a real Bible on the lectern, and was admired by all present.

Mrs Gillies will retire from the ministry on Easter Sunday, April 20.