Live from the Old Church Centre, Cushendun.

Meet the Chair: William Colvin & the Story of the Old Church

In the very first episode of Live from the Old Church!, we start with both the place and the person helping to steer its future. Recorded at the Old Church Centre in Cushendun, this episode sees Centre Manager Steve Byrne in conversation with William Colvin, Chair of the Cushendun Building Preservation Trust. William reflects on the story of the Old Church — from its 19th-century origins to its transformation into a modern community and cultural space — and shares his own journey into the role of Chair. They discuss how the Centre was saved, the people who stepped up along the way, and what it really takes to keep a rural community building open, relevant, and sustainable today. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at leadership, community, and long-term thinking — warts, wins, and all. This episode sets the scene for the series: the building, the people, and the purpose behind Live from the Old Church! — with future episodes featuring volunteers, artists, performers, and others connected to the Centre’s ongoing story. 👉 Learn more about the Old Church Centre at https://www.oldchurchcentre.com