The Church of Scotland has spoken out in support of the Barrhead schools' anti-sectarianism march, which is set to take place in the East Renfrewshire town last Friday.

The event, which is said to be the first of its kind in Scotland, was organised through East Renfrewshire Council's Anti-Sectarian Kids (ASK) initiative.

It involved P7 pupils from seven local primary schools - both non-denominational and RC - as well as S1 students from both local secondary schools.

Speaking in advance of the march, Morag Mylne, convener of the Kirk's Church & Society Council, said:

"I believe that this event will be a visible public demonstration of the reality that bigotry, where it exists, can be defeated by education and shared understanding."

The Rev Maureen Leitch, minister of Barrhead's Bourock Church, continued: "This event is a welcome progression in the excellent anti-sectarian initiatives undertaken by the schools in Barrhead. I hope to be able to join the 500 young people involved."