CHURCHGOERS in Carlops have been recognised for going green by being awarded gold.

In 2017 Eco-Congregation Scotland introduced a new series of awards – bronze, silver and gold - to recognise the environmental work of its member congregations.

There are now 431 registered congregations spread across the country, making Eco-Congregation Scotland one of the leading environmental organisations north of the border.

Last weekend, Carlops Parish Church became the very first Church to be awarded the new gold award.

The congregation, supported by the local community, continued its activities such as litter picks, coffee mornings, soup lunches, fair trade stall, concerts and talks to support eco-friendly living.

And recently they have been involved in the creation of a new garden area between the Church and the hall to form an attractive space for use by the community.

Anna Woolverton, Eco Group co-ordinator, collected the award last Sunday on behalf of the congregation from the Rev Tom Burt.

Anna told us: "Our thanks go to the Rev Tom Burt for returning to Carlops to make the presentation of the award."