The former first minister, now known as Lord Bannside, yesterday stood under a temporary awning in heavy rain as he preached and, joined by several other Free Presbyterians, sang the Gospel hymn ‘Just as I am’.

Dr Paisley has preached at the spot for decades but has been absent in recent months after being rushed into intensive care at the Ulster Hospital in February.

Another retired Free Presbyterian minister, the Rev David McIlveen, was present at yesterday’s short service. ...