GLASGOW primary pupils have given a big send-off to a minister who's been the "heart" of their school for 36 years.

As revealed by the Evening Times earlier this month, the Very Rev John Miller is to retire next month after almost four decades as a minister in Castlemilk - a role which meant he was also the chaplain of Windlaw and Tormusk primary schools.

Former Moderator John, 66, and his wife Mary, 60, are leaving next month for a new life helping HIV/Aids victims in Zimbabwe.

Windlaw and Tormusk primaries are now being combined to form a £6million super-school, which is due to open in August.

And as a lasting tribute to the man who has christened, counselled and married generations of Castlemilk children, the new school is to be named Miller Primary.

Aileen Dalzell, headteacher at the new school, said: "We've been extremely lucky to have John.

"He's been vital to our school for almost four decades and he's been instrumental in supporting us through the difficult merger. It will be strange when he leaves and he'll be sorely missed."

To commemorate his retirement, pupils held a special farewell for John at Tormusk, attended by pupils from both schools.

He was presented with a drawing of Miller Primary by teacher Lindsay Brock.

As well as taking an active part in school life, John visits pupils every week to give a class. And staff say he is always there to help people during times of great need.

Mrs Dalzell said: "John comes in and reads a wee story' to the pupils about life and a big story' about the Bible.

"He really connects with the children. I asked one boy what he'd miss most about John and he said John's stories.

"He doesn't only teach, though, he counsels as well and is always there when people need him."

The former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland is well-known for refusing a comfortable manse in a well-off suburb to take on Castlemilk East Church.

A cornerstone of the community and a familiar sight riding around Castlemilk on his bicycle, John shares a modest housing association home with wife Mary.

An Oxford graduate and himself the son of a minister, John also ditched his dog collar in 1974 in a bid to break down barriers between his church and the community.

Having raised their three children - Sarah, Anna and James - in Castlemilk, John decided against working beyond his retirement for a new life at Murambinda Hospital in Zimbabwe.

Last year, Glasgow recognised his achievements with its most prestigious award, the Loving Cup.

And the community are also showing their thanks with a party to give John and Mary a send-off to remember.

Tickets for John's farewell at Castlemilk High School on July 6 are £5. Call 0141 634 7305.