Glaswegians have spoken of their devastation after a fire destroyed a much-loved church in Partick.
St Simon's Catholic Church, which dates back to 1858, has been gutted by the blaze which took hold around 2.40am today.
The church on Partick Bridge Street was a beloved parish church and spiritual home to Glasgow's Polish community. It also held community events including a cafe for the city's homeless.
The Archdiocese of Glasgow said the loss of the 'much-loved landmark at Partick Cross' will be a 'heavy blow'.
They added: “The destruction of St Simon’s church by fire will be a blow to people far beyond the west end of Glasgow. Though small in size, St Simon’s was well-frequented and was the spiritual home of the Polish community in the west of Scotland who had established a shrine there.
“It was also a focal point for the local community, and especially the homeless who benefited from a café on site which had to be suspended during the pandemic.
“The church of St Simon’s is linked to the larger parish of St Peter’s in Partick and worshippers will be accommodated there.
“The cause of the blaze is not immediately apparent, but we will work with the fire service as they investigate the site.
“St Simon’s was a much-loved landmark at Partick Cross and its loss is a heavy blow.”
Sikorski Polish Club, a focal point for the Poles and everyone with an interest in Poland's heritage in Glasgow, said: "Extremely sad news this morning. Saint Simon’s Church has been used by the Polish Community since WW2 when Polish Soldiers stationed nearby marched there every Sunday for Service.
"Today it was at the heart of our Polish Community with Polish Services every week. It will be greatly missed."
Health Secretary Humza shared his solidarity with the Catholic community.
He said: "What a devastating couple of days for Catholics in Scotland. First a cowardly attack on a priest in his place of worship, followed by this. I know St Simon's had a special place in the Polish community's heart. Solidarity with our Catholic community in Scotland."
Glaswegians have been taking to social media to share their memories of the church, with generations of families receiving their sacraments under its roof.
One Glasgow Live reader said: "So sad where we were married and our son was baptised there 21 years ago….so very sad for such an old building of Glasgow."
Another added: "Very sad for the community and history of the building My mum and dad both had their funeral mass here."
Actor Simon Pegg held his own wedding to Maureen McCann at the church back in 2005, with Gwyneth Paltrow among the guests.
Carol Monaghan MP added: "I am absolutely devastated to hear that my parish church of St Simon’s in Partick has been destroyed in a fire.
"Those who have visited St Simon’s will know what a special place this was and will understand how devastating this loss is for the Catholic community in Partick."
Robert Hynd, Moderator of the Presbytery of Glasgow (Church of Scotland) added: “It is tragic to see such damage to a proud and historic church building. St Simon’s has an important place in the life of Partick and is particularly loved by members of Glasgow’s Polish community.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the congregation of St Simon’s. Denominations are meaningless at times such as this and we will offer whatever support we can to help in their recovery from this tragic event.”
