CROWDS in Renfrewshire turned out to celebrate as a beacon was lit outside Paisley Abbey to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The Gazette:

Over 3,000 beacons were simultaneously lit across the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Channel Islands on Thursday, with many others lit in UK Overseas Territories and in Commonwealth counties in recognition of the Queen's long service.

The Gazette:

Renfrewshire's Provost Lorraine Cameron and Queen's Chaplin, Reverend Jim Gibson, welcomed guests to the service. 

The Gazette:

At 9.35pm local piper, Peter McGeoch played 'Dui Regnare', a unique tune composed for the occasion.

The Gazette:

Audrey Paul then announced the lighting with a specially written bugle call, entitled 'Majesty'.

The Gazette:

The Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Colonel Peter McCarthy, lit the beacon at 9.45pm as the Paisley Abbey Choir sang 'A Song for the Commonwealth', conducted by George McPhee.

The Gazette:

Colonel Peter McCarthy told The Gazette: "It was an honour to light the beacon outside the historic Paisley Abbey to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Gazette:

"Reaching 70 years of service as monarch is an incredible achievement and I was delighted that so many people came out to celebrate with us.

The Gazette:

"I know there are many other celebrations taking place in the community over the weekend and I know just how much The Queen will be inspired by so many people taking part."

The Gazette:

Events are also taking place in the community across Renfrewshire this weekend, and residents can add both public and private events to the online map at platinumjubilee.gov.uk/events/.

The Gazette:

Paisley Abbey will also be holding a service to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at 11am on Sunday. All are welcome to attend.