ST MARTIN’S Church in Tranent welcomed a special visitor as the parish marked a special anniversary.

Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh Leo Cushley visited the church last Sunday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the building, with pupils from St Martin’s RC Primary School and church members also in attendance.

There was a special Mass celebrated by the Archbishop, followed by cake and refreshments in the church hall.

The children helped Archbishop Cushley cut the cake and enjoyed eating a piece or two too!

Although the building has been in place since 1969, St Martin’s itself has been in Tranent for 128 years.

Archbishop Cushley said: “It was lovely to meet everyone at St Martin’s on the happy occasion of the church’s 50th anniversary and to remember those whose generosity and foresight built the church back then.

“The church and its parishioners play a key role for the Catholic and wider community in Tranent, giving them spiritual nourishment and practical support. It also has a positive relationship with nearby St Martin’s Primary School and its pupils and staff.

“Here’s to the next 50 years!”

Parish priest Fr Basil Clark said: “Thanks to the parishioners for all that they do to make St Martin’s a vibrant parish.”

St Martin’s Primary School headteacher Lauren Davies said: “It was a wonderful celebration, not just of the 50th anniversary itself but of the strong community partnerships that we have within St Martin’s parish spanning several generations.”