Amid talks surrounding the future of Newton Mearns Hebrew Congregation, the shul appointed a new chairman at its AGM on Sunday.

The shul is currently in discussions with the United Synagogue and also Giffnock and Newlands Hebrew Congregation regarding its future.

Local businessman Gary Winston, who has been involved with the shul for more than 15 years, has taken over as chair and hopes talks will reach a conclusion. He described his predecessor Brian Fox as an “excellent chairman”. Mr Winston added: “I’m very honoured the shul has put its trust in me.”

Newton Mearns, he said, is “facing challenging times, but also exciting times. The merger talks are ongoing with Giffnock synagogue and also with United Synagogue and I plan to continue to keep communications open.”