Greenock minister conducts marriage for his mum

Reverend Jonathan Fleming, 39, was delighted to officiate at the wedding of his mum Margaret and businessman Brian Carberry at Boclair House Hotel in Bearsden.

Jonathan, who is the minister at Lyle Kirk, said it was a wonderful family celebration - and a day he will never forget.

He said: "It was a happy day for my mum and a special day for us as a family.

Wedding day

"We as a family have known Brian as a friend for many years before he and my mum got together.

"My mum had got in touch to tell us how Brian had got down on one knee to propose and I was absolutely over the moon."

Sadly Jonathan lost his dad William 12 years ago.

He and brother Mark, 32, are happy that their mum had found happiness again.

There was never any question who would help the happy couple to tie the knot.

Jonathan said: "I was privileged to be asked and delighted that I was able to do it.

"It was a wonderful day and one I'll always remember."

The minister is married to Karyn and they have two daughters Rachel, 12, and eight-year-old Hollie.

He said: "It was definitely the most memorable wedding I've ever conducted and will be until I marry my own kids - if they'll let me!

"Brian is very much part of the family and a loving papa to my two daughters."

Wedding day

The happy newlyweds, both aged 64, jetted off to Malta on honeymoon and their first dance was 'We've Only Just Begun' by The Carpenters.

Rev Fleming was elected and appointed as the new minister of Lyle Kirk earlier this year, coming to Greenock from St John's Church in Largs and Cumbrae Parish Church.

Jonathan says he has received a warm welcome since taking up the post in Inverclyde and is looking forward to Lyle Kirk welcoming more members of the congregation back.

He said: "I am excited about normality getting closer and church numbers going up again.

"I am really enjoying life in Greenock and my daily walk along the Esplanade to Gourock."