FOR years bar stools have been replacing pews as disused churches have been bought up across Scotland and converted into pubs.
But now an island parish is witnessing an unusual role reversal as a popular pub is being transformed into a place of worship.
The new North Harris Free Church of Scotland is in negotiations to buy the Harris Inn in Tarbert, Harris.
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The church - created after a number of worshippers quit the Church of Scotland in protest of the ordination of gay ministers - say it would make a suitable home for its congregation.
Plans submitted to Western Isles council by The North Harris Free Church state: “The Harris Inn is recognised as a long standing social hub and restaurant in Tarbert.
"However, following an appeal by North Harris Free Church for a suitable building to be turned into a place of worship, an offer of this building was made."
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It stressed there should be “no negative economic impact” to Tarbert as a result of the change.
The local authority will now have the final say.
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