Church team steps out for organ funds
An intrepid group of church volunteers need to raise almost £200,000 to repair their historic organ, which has had pride of place in their church for 140 years.
A number of the flock at All Saints Parish Church in Shrewsbury have already taken on a sponsored walk of almost six miles to help reach their £188,500 target.
The group of 10, plus three dogs, walked up Breidden Hill in Powys and raised £1,300 towards their goal, but they have a long way to go before they can restore their 1878 unique John Nicholson organ.
Revd Preb Paul Lockett of the parish of All Saints with St Michael explained in a letter to parishioners: "Built in 1878, the organ is now the largest surviving instrument built by John Nicholson himself and the only one to be fitted with his unique Barker lever action.
"The action is now worn out and the leatherwork has perished and not to put too fine a point on it the entire instrument desperately needs to be restored.
"As the average congregation of the church is 35 people per week the task of raising this money has fallen to a group of four people, who on behalf of the church, are appealing to the wider community for donations to restore this organ."
Choir
Linda Parker, who came to Shropshire in 2004, suggested a sponsored walk after racking her brains for ways to help the organ fund, and quickly attracted a group of willing walkers.
Linda, 68, said: "We had a beautiful day. Everyone helped each other out.
"It was very cold on the top though. I want to say a big thank you to everyone that sponsored us.
"I've not walked like that for 20 years but I wanted to do something for the organ fund.
"It started with me wanting to do something for the organ and I talked about it with members of the choir.
"Then some more members of the choir joined in and some of their friends wanted to help as well.
"It was a fantastic day and to raise the £1,300 was great."
She went on: "It's the last remaining one of John Nicholson's organs still in existence that is in working order.
"We have been trying to get it restored not just for us now but for future generations, to get schools to come in and be able to utilise it.
"If there is anyone out there who can help us by making a donation to the organ fund then please get in touch."
To inquire about helping the cause, contact Revd Preb Lockett on 01743 357862, on chantrypriest@gmail.com or by correspondence to the Vicarage, Linden Close, Shrewsbury.
