The Rev Denis Duncan, who has died at the age of 93, helped mastermind the success of the Lin Berwick Trust, editing its monthly newsletter, writing about its work and improving the lives of people with disabilities.
I first met Denis when he was deputy director of the Westminster Pastoral Foundation in London. He recognised the sexuality of those with disabilities and also believed that people, like me, with disability should have genuine representation within worship. They were not objects to be prayed over, Denis would say, but people with potential.
Denis was brought up in Slamannan, Falkirk. His father, Reginald, was a congregational minister, his mother, Clarice, a supporter of the arts. Denis called himself a reluctant preacher, but he was minister of the Church of Scotland parishes Trinity Duke Street, Glasgow, and St Margaret's Church, Juniper Green, Edinburgh, and was a guest preacher at churches nationwide.
Those who saw and heard him preach remember a very tall, upright and imposing man. Gentle and compassionate, he did great work with the churches council for health and healing, chairing bodies and raising funds for the complementary health centre formerly in the crypt in St Marylebone parish church in London.
A documentary writer for Scottish television, he interviewed many public figures including Harold Wilson and Alec Douglas-Home, wrote hundreds of newspaper articles, published some 15 books and edited many more, at one time owning the publishing house Arthur James Limited.
He lived by his saying: "It's no good having your head in the clouds if you are no earthly use." The Lin Berwick Trust recognised his enthusiasm by naming after him one of its holiday homes for people with disabilities, their families and carers.
A superb friend, he is survived by his son, Raymond, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.