GOODBYEE!

So that’s it – a pretty tearful last service at Spott and another at Belhaven. A moving last Mr T’S Pleasant Sunday Afternoon on East Coast FM on Sunday. And now a last article for the East Lothian Courier!

It’s poignant stuff and a true emotional rollercoaster when a place and a community have been part of your life for almost 39 years and you have shared at a pretty deep level in the lives of many, many folk. It’s been a privilege and a joy for which I am profoundly grateful.

While my new home in Geneva will have much to offer and much to take delight in, some things will be sorely missed: l Belhaven Bay and the John Muir Way – a summer sunset splashed across the big sky… l The Smiddy at Tyninghame, where I’ve hidden out on a Friday morning for decades, and where the welcome was always warm – and the coffee perfect.

- The chat in the paper shop with Joe when I collect my Times of a morning.

- The wonderful welcome from the staff and pupils at our local schools – and the great times shared there.

- Watching Dunbar United on a bitingly cold winter’s day, surrounded by supporters who have been there for almost a century through thick and thin.

- On the beach on Easter Sunday morning – a crackling fire, brave singers and an amazing story to celebrate.

- A pizza from Umberto’s and the warm, friendly welcome there.

- Working with the staff at Belhaven Hospital and being humbled and impressed by their professionalism.

- Sharing with the local undertakers in providing compassionate and sensitive funerals.

- Being in a real place where people know you and are interested in you.

- And of course, sharing in the life of the congregations at Spott and Belhaven.

Who’s a lucky boy?