Churchgoers in Drumchapel are hoping their pastor can be saved after immigration officials launched steps to have him deported.

Pastor Pip Ashiembi, who is originally from Kenya, was detained at Dungavel House Immigration Removal Centre on Friday by officials.

The pastor at the Fountain of Love Church on Drumry Road East has been living in the UK on a reporting status since 2009.

He applied for asylum nine months ago after escaping violence in his native Kenya - and now his application has been rejected.

Pastor Ashiembi says he has lost family members in Kenya to violence and he also has no financial support.

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He now fears for his life when he returns on September 5.

He told the Evening Times: "I have no right to appeal when I am in the UK. I have to wait until I return to Kenya.

"I feel my life may be in danger. I know the government will say Kenya is a democratic country and it is now safe but I don't feel that way.

"I enjoy my work within the church and community of Drumchapel. I do something which is meaningful and I don't get paid for it.

"I am 61 now, why should I be living my last days over in Kenya?"

Alex Morton is one churchgoer who expressed his upset over what has happened.

He said: "He is a very outgoing and sincere guy. His preaching is quite special. He doesn't just preach the book, he is a wizard with language and he is able to tell a story.

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"He is a good man and everyone is shocked by what has happened.

"It will leave a big space in the church, no one can replace him."

A Home Office spokesperson said: “All applications are considered on their individual merits and in accordance with the immigration rules.”

"Where someone is in the UK illegally and is found not to need our protection, we expect them to leave the country voluntarily. Where they do not, we will seek to enforce their departure.”