TWO institutions that helped shape Alloa over the years are joining forces to mark a special anniversary.

The local O-I glassworks is to sponsor the design and installation a new stained glass window for St Mungo's Parish Church, which is marking its bicentenary in 2019.

Glass-making in Alloa predates the building of the church by around 70 years and the modern plant is now part of an international company.

But the two buildings and the people who worked and visited them have a lot of history together, as Gordon Leckie, O-I plant manager, said: “The glass plant and the church have been neighbours since it was built.

“Our people have been its parishioners; they’ve worshipped, been baptised, married and had their funerals in St Mungo’s.

“You could say we have been the economic heart of the town while the church has been the spiritual heart, so funding the new stained glass window reiterates our joint commitment to Alloa and its people.”

The new window will symbolise the journey the church has made since it was opened in 1819.

It will also highlight the importance of the River Forth in the lives of local residents and the town's industries.

Initial designs for the new stained glass window are expected by the end of this year and Reverend Sang Cha, minister at the religious establishment, hopes it will be installed early 2018.

He said: “This bicentenary is an opportunity to promote not just the church, but also to reflect on Alloa’s heritage.

“We celebrated the laying of our foundation stone in February and have some exciting events planned for the rest of the year.

“But we wanted a permanent memory as well and are delighted that O-I has agreed to sponsor this window, which will tell our story for generations to come.”

When the church was built nearly 200 years ago, the local glassworks predominantly produced wine bottles.

Nowadays, the plant supplies the Scottish spirits industry while also making beer, and once again in a long time, wine bottles.

The plant manager added: “We have a very talented team of young and more experienced glassmakers here in Alloa and recruit new apprentices each year.

“Many of them have followed parents and grandparents into the glassworks. We are delighted to help make this further permanent link between the town and its industry.”