IT’S said ‘God moves in mysterious ways’ but eyebrows were still raised when a ‘for sale’ sign appeared outside Gladsmuir Parish Church.

The sign was erected outside the village church last Wednesday morning.

There was a bargain to be had but it was on the other side of the road. . . for the ‘for sale’ sign had been placed on the wrong spot.

Land opposite the church, previously where the old church hall had been sited, is available to buy.

David Montgomery, an elder at Gladsmuir Parish Church, said the sign had raised a few eyebrows among residents.

He told the Courier: “I think some people who were passing in their cars were actually stopping.

“Obviously the church is worth a couple of million and we are asking for offers over £75,000 for the church hall.”

The sign was quickly moved to the correct location.

The former church hall, on the south side of the A199, was demolished in August 2015, having sat disused for about 30 years, other than by a local group of pigeon fanciers.

With the building inconveniently located on the opposite side of the road from the rest of the village, it fell into disrepair.

Since it was demolished, planning permission was given in April last year for a four-bedroom house and parking for two cars. The plan is for the Church of Scotland to sell the site for someone to build a new home.

Mr Montgomery said: “We are intending to use the proceeds of the sale of the land to fund a refurbishment of the toilet facilities in the church, including making provision for disabled access and creating access from inside the church.

“Currently, the single toilet is at the rear of the building so the upgrade will improve the environment for any visitors with special needs and make it easier for people of all ages, but it will be a safer and more friendly option for young people and children.”

The hall dated back to 1926 and was opened that year by Sir John Lorne MacLeod.

It was used for a variety of activities, including Sunday school, Bible classes, discos and wedding receptions.