ONE of Renfrewshire's finest churches has won a prestigious prize at the National Church Awards.

Bishopton Parish Church has been named as the Scotland winner of the 2022 Nayler Award for Excellence in Church Maintenance.

The building, which has a history dating back hundreds of years, received a prize of £2,500 at the awards ceremony, which took place the historic Mercers' Company Livery Hall in the City of London.

Bishopton Parish Church was also given an aluminium National Church Awards plaque to proudly display.

The current building was constructed in 1814/15 and is one of the earliest examples of neo-Gothic style in Britain. 

Judges praised staff at the church for making excellent use of computerised systems for its maintenance plans, risk assessments and work instructions.

Care of the building is led by the Property Committee, which carries out some tasks itself and organises the work of contractors. 

The church was also commended for having in place an extensive plan to look after a complex building, which staff managed to keep going during the Covid-19 pandemic. The judges also highlighted the good balance between volunteers and contractors, and a good matching of tasks to the skills of volunteers. 

Comedian Hugh Dennis, who co-hosted the awards ceremony along with Rev Canon Ann Easter, said: "Packed with history and heritage, centres for vital community support and places for worship and reflection, churches are a beating heart of the nation. 

"A huge congratulation to everyone at Bishopton Parish Church, who love and care for their building. 

"The National Church Awards will inspire others with new ideas to make their churches welcoming, long lasting and thriving, at the service of all."

Claire Walker, CEO of the National Churches Trust, added: "The Nayler Award for Excellence in Church Maintenance shines a light on the people who look after local churches and help ensure a future for their place of worship. 

"Maintenance is traditionally seen as a routine task and is an activity that is celebrated or rewarded. But throughout the year, it is thanks to volunteers that church buildings are kept in good condition and serious problems kept at bay."