But they didn't let him go without due recognition of his outstanding contribution to both during a remarkable 50-plus years in the same charge, Bridge Street Church – an achievement which ranks as something of a record.

Sunday evening's valedictory service led by the interim moderator, the Rev Ronnie Johnstone – who has been caring for the charge in Mr Roy's absence through ill health – was emotional at times as glowing tributes were paid to him from varying walks of life, interspersed with fond memories and anecdotes.

The tributes were led by Mr Johnstone, who said he had valued Mr Roy's friendship, kindness, enthusiasm and "glorious eccentricity" from his first meeting with him at his manse in Wick on a foggy February day in 1984.

Mr Johnstone said that Mr Roy epitomised the best of the Auld Kirk tradition and, appropriately from Bridge Street Church, had been a bridge-building minister – so vital when the traditional links between kirk and community were being severed.

He highlighted Mr Roy's immense involvement in the community as a man o' many pairts – minister, chaplain, councillor, Rotarian and rail campaigner – and acknowledged the courage of his convictions in taking a stand on issues he believed in, such as abortion and nuclear power.

Dennis Lundie, head teacher at Wick North Primary School, said he had been privileged to have known Mr Roy as school chaplain and friend for 22 years during which the minister had brought the Word of God to countless pupils. Mr Lundie made special mention of Mr Roy's gift of incorporating snapshots of Wick life to illustrate Bible stories.

The head teacher continued: "I am sure that if you spoke to some of the former pupils today they would recall those stories with affection. Mr Roy will be remembered in the hearts of pupils and parents."

Retired consultant physician Dr Pat Robertson, of Wick Rotary Club, paid tribute to Mr Roy for the minister's dedication to the club as a member since 1971 and president for the 1985/86 session.

Dr Robertson said: "He took part in many of our activities and the Rotarians came to value his judgement and the contribution he made."

Dr Robertson also referred to his association with Mr Roy through his hospital chaplaincy work and commented on the many occasions when the minister had strengthened and nurtured the faith of patients in times of adversity.

NHS locality manager Pauline Craw said the staff at Caithness General harboured a deep respect and gratitude for Mr Roy's "wonderful work" as chaplain at the hospital over the years.

She added: "He has always been there, not only for the patients but for relatives and staff as well."

Reader Heather Stewart highlighted the encouragement Mr Roy had given young people and the support he had provided to her personally when she was training for the readership.

She recalled the first time she had preached at a service with Mr Roy present and said that, with great sensitivity, he had seated himself out of sight of the pulpit and afterwards complimented her on her "inspiring" performance.

Replying, Mr Roy said it had been "a great privilege to be a minister living in the town of Wick" and expressed his appreciation of the many friendships that had been forged.

He thanked everyone in the church and community for their gifts and support and digressed in humorous vein to recall one or two stories relating to unexpected situations he had encountered during his time in Wick.

Mr Roy concluded: "I wish you all God's blessing. You are very fortunate to live in a town like Wick and must try to keep the good traditions of your community alive. It is very important, too, to continue to encourage your young people. Thank you all very much indeed."

Mr Roy, who has retired with his wife Jean to the Kingswells area of Aberdeen, is believed to be unique in Church of Scotland history, having spent over half a century in the same charge and dedicated his entire career to it. He was licensed in April 1952 and ordained three years later after a spell as an assistant at Brechin Cathedral.

Parishioners honoured Mr and Mrs Roy on the occasion of his 50 years' service to Wick Bridge Street Church, which has been linked with Wick Old Parish Church.

n.donaldson@nosn.co.uk

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