Established on April 25 in 1986, the housing association, which owns and manages more than 1000 homes across East Renfrewshire, is encouraging its tenants to join in the celebrations.

Chairman John Hamilton said: “This is a significant milestone and one we’ll mark by highlighting how our customers are at the heart of all we do.”

Celebrations will kick off with a birthday bash and children’s activities in St Andrew’s Community Hall in Ralston Road, Barrhead, from 12-3pm on Saturday, April 25. 

Local community groups will be in attendance to highlight “the great work they do” and compete for a share of the £15,000 Barrhead Housing is putting up to support them.

“We’re inviting all local people to join in the celebrations,” said John. “We’ll be sending hundreds of texts to our customers, giving details of the event and encouraging them to come along on the 25th.”

Everyone who attends will be able to vote for the community group they believe deserves an individual donation of up to £1300. Barrhead Housing tenants can also vote online. 

Barrhead Housing chief executive Lorna Wilson said: “These wonderful groups are the backbone of our local community, and our Community Fund donations will help them to continue the great work they do. The winners will be announced on the day.”

One person who is looking forward to the 40th anniversary celebrations is Tricia Bewick, who was Barrhead Housing’s first-ever employee. Tricia was personal assistant to the chief executive when she retired in 2012 after 26 years’ service.

“This is an important milestone in Barrhead Housing’s journey,” said Tricia. “I’m delighted to see that tenants are the focus of the celebrations throughout the year.”