Susan Sutherland (pictured) hails originally from Wick in Caithness, but also lived in Thurso and has most recently resided with her family at Westhill, Aberdeenshire.

She attended school in Wick and Thurso High before taking up a job as an insurance clerkess, working in that capacity in both Thurso and Aberdeen.

More recently she was a school administrator in Skene and Westhill schools.

She is married to Bill, also from Thurso, who works with Lloyds TSB and the couple have two children. Son Craig will complete his training as a nurse in March and Vivien completes her primary teaching course in May.

In Caithness, Mrs Sutherland was a member of the Salvation Army and her faith has always been a vital part of her life. She began training as a lay preacher in 2000 but later returned to education, graduating from Aberdeen University in 2006 with a BD honours degree.

She told the Guide & Gazette this week: "It has been a challenge, but so worthwhile. I don't look on the ministry as a job but as a privilege."

Since graduating, Mrs Sutherland has had work placements around Aberdeen working at Tillydrone and Stockethill, as well as with Aberdeen Hospitals' chaplaincy team. For the past 15 months she has preached at Peterculter Church.

She concluded: "My husband Bill really encouraged me through it all, and my children were a great support while we were all studying at the same time."