The traditional Kirkin’ of the Council church service could soon be hosted in other towns and villages in Renfrewshire, rather than solely in Paisley.

Councillors have agreed efforts should be made for the ceremony, usually held at historic Paisley Abbey at the beginning of a new term, to visit other communities and denominations.

A host of public servants and other local representatives are typically invited to attend the event, which was last held in June 2017.

Councillor Iain McMillan, leader of Renfrewshire's Labour group, raised the matter at a full council meeting on Thursday and requested consideration be given to the location of the service.

He said: “I know this only happens once every five years and some of us will not be here in five years’ time but I would just like the administration to give it some thought.

"I know the Paisley Abbey has got the gravitas, I know that. It’s a cultural and religious icon for the whole of Renfrewshire, indeed the whole of Scotland, but I think it would be nice to move it out into other areas and indeed churches of other denominations as well.

“I know it’s a non-denominational service, I know that, because I have been at them in the past but I think it would be nice to move outwith Paisley into some of the other villages and towns that make up Renfrewshire.”

Provost Lorraine Cameron said she agreed with Councillor McMillan and confirmed officers would report back on the stage arrangements are at for the next service before considering a change in location now or in the years to come.

She confirmed it was unlikely that the service would move from the abbey at this stage but added: “It’s definitely something we could look at going forward.”

Councillor Andy Doig, who represents Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch as an Independent, added: “It would be a wise and prudent move to take it out of the locale of only Paisley but also to look at all denominations.

“I think that’s very wise in the year 2022.”