Mrs Anne Mackay met The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh at the Palace of Holyroodhouse on Thursday 5th July at an evening reception held to recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to Scottish life.

Early in May the Moderator, Rev John Ross, received a phone call from an official at Buckingham Palace asking him to nominate someone who had made an exceptional contribution to the Free Church of Scotland at the grassroots level, and who was deserving of recognition.

For the last 25 years Mrs MacKay has been treasurer of Women For Mission. Through her committed voluntary work she has been responsible, directly and indirectly, for raising in excess of £100,000 for overseas development, humanitarian projects and similar good causes related to the mission work of the Free Church of Scotland. Her commitment, diligence and cheerfulness is a source of inspiration to colleagues at home as well as a great encouragement to workers overseas.

(report reproduced from Free Church of Scotland web site)

Last Sunday evening saw a very enjoyable Songs of Praise service in St Andrews church, Golspie. We cancelled our evening service so as to enable as many of our folks to be there. The format was informal and hymn requests from the 'pews' determined which songs were sung. There was also a short time for prayer and reflection upon God's word. In all it was a very good evening.

As reported in last Thursday's Northern Times:

"GOLSPIE Stafford retained the Sutherland Amateur League trophy for a historic fifth year in a row after beating nearest rivals Helmsdale United 2-1 at Stafford Park."

Congratulations to all.