A CAMPAIGN to save a popular church is on the verge of victory.

Clyde Presbytery had recommended that Renfrew North Parish Church should be closed down.

Under the controversial proposals, it was set to be merged with another church in nearby Inchinnan.

However, a drive led by minister Philip Wallace has prompted a change of mind.

Presbytery bosses have now recommended that Renfrew North be classed as a ‘Category A’ church and kept for future use.

A final decision on its future is expected to be made by senior Church of Scotland officials next month.

In an update to his congregation posted on social media, Rev Wallace said: “I have now been informed that the current thinking of the Presbytery Planning Group is to propose that the Renfrew North building is categorised as Category A – that is, required for future use.

“This will come as a great relief to all of us.

“However, we are also reminded that the plan still needs to be approved by the meeting of Presbytery on March 18, the Presbytery Mission Plan Implementation Group and the Church of Scotland General Trustees.

“In the meantime, I believe that we should continue with what we do best – that is, worshipping God and serving the people of Renfrew and beyond.”

A decision on the church’s future was originally due in November but was postponed to last week as the campaign to save it gathered pace.

Parishioners at Renfrew North, in Renfield Street, say their church has never been more popular, with 750 people and 15 organisations using it every week.

There are also 515 members of the congregation, while attendances at Sunday services can reach 150.

The historic building is also used by the Boys’ Brigade, Brownies, Guides, Women’s Guild and a Men’s Association, as well as other local groups, who make a donation or pay by standing order.

Rev Wallace has welcomed the presbytery’s “change in thinking.”

He told The Gazette: “They have obviously listened to what we are saying.

“We have passed the first hurdle and we will see what happens after that.

“The church has been very heartened by the support of the community.”

A petition launched in a bid to save Renfrew North has attracted more than 1,800 signatures.

A church has been in existence at the site since 1843 and the present building was opened in 1879.

Rev Wallace has been a minister for 24 years, with the last four spent at Renfrew North.

Clyde Presbytery has 70 churches in total, covering an area that includes Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and East Dunbartonshire.

The Church of Scotland wants to reduce the number of ministers in the Clyde Presbytery from 60 to 40, leaving some churches facing an uncertain future, with Renfrew North one of those previously earmarked for closure.