A GREEN group from Inverkip Parish Church have been handed a gong for all their hard work.

The Eco Group received the silver award from Eco Congregation Scotland.

The plaque was aptly made from recycled church pews.

Hilary Cameron, the group's convener, said: "This is the second award - we received a bronze award a year ago.

"It's fantastic. It was really a team effort, we've had support from the community.

"We are the only church in Inverclyde, there are 50 churches in Inverclyde and we are the only church of any denomination to receive an eco award."

Mrs Cameron said they have tried to incorporate the environment in everything they do in the church.

She said: "The children in the youth club have built a bug hotel in the church garden from unwanted materials and made bird feeders from recycled plastic bottles."

The church also uses environmentally friendly paper for its order of service.

She said: "We have incorporated more about the environment and creation in our worship on our prayers, songs and readings."

Mrs Cameron says their work has also extended to the local community holding regular litter picks, village and beach cleans.

This has resulted in collecting 850kg from the local area.

She said: "We have had good support to people coming to litter picks and beach cleans and we want to set an example to the younger generation."

"The award is recognition of our efforts over the last two years and we want to do more.

"We would like other churches in the area to get involved, especially Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay as we are linked with them and share a minister.

"We would like to work with them and support them."

Mrs Cameron added: "We are really proud of what we have achieved."

The group were particularly commended for their commitment and enthusiasm for involvement in both church and community activities and their continued efforts to keep local beaches clean.

Members were also commended for their involvement in the Inverclyde Fair Trade Steering Group.

Mrs Cameron said: "I want to thank to all group members for their efforts and to the continued support of the congregation."