A POPULAR Alloa minister has moved on to pastures new, leaving a legacy of love behind in Clackmannanshire.

After almost 11 years, first with Alloa North Church and then with the united congregation of Alloa Ludgate Church, Reverend Liz Clelland (pictured) will now adventure south to take up a chaplaincy position in the Christian Healing Ministry at Braehead in Lanarkshire.

As a caring and colourful character she will be greatly missed by a much wider circle than her own congregation.

At her final service on the last Sunday in December the Session Clerk, Mrs Val Rose, paid tribute to Liz's involvement in the setting up of the Soup Pot - a free drop in cafe for those homeless or in temporary accommodation.

She also helped distribute starter packs for those going into their first tenancy, and then in recent years helped form the Foodbank - which provides emergency food for those referred through other agencies in Clackmannanshire.

Liz's compassionate, practical concern for those in need has provided an inspiration for others and a new charity, The Gate, has been formed to take forward her vision.

Following her goodbye service, Liz celebrated alongside others with a meal and was presented with gifts and a cheque as a token of appreciation.

Although the departure of a much-loved minister is never enjoyed, Liz leaves behind a thriving congregation which is looking forward to further renovations of the Ludgate Church buildings and a continuing community involvement.

During the vacancy of the parish minister, Rev. Muriel Willoughby will be acting as locum minister.