HOLY Cross Church in Tetcott held a special concert on Saturday, September 1, to celebrate the restoration of the church organ.

The organ, installed in 1872, was presented to the church by the then Rector, Rev Temple Walter West at his own expense and was built by the firm of Geake of Launceston.

In recent years water had entered the organ chamber causing damage and a thorough restoration was recommended before the damage became too extensive and expensive to repair.

Fundraising efforts stretched over the last four years until finally sufficient funds were in place for work to start last November, which was carried out by Michael Farley a member of the Institute of British Organ Builders and Peter Wycliffe-Jones.

The work involved the removal of the entire instrument to the workshops, apart from the pipes which were restored on site.

After a dedication given by Rev Jane Lucas, Dr Nigel Browne gave an introduction followed by recitals from Dr Browne, Rev Kathy Roberts, David Robinson and Lynne Sullivan who is the resident church organist. Michael Farley gave a fascinating demonstration of the organ pipes. Cream teas were served on the Tetcott Manor lawn.

The Parochial Church Council expressed its gratitude to all the individuals and trusts who have made generous donations and grants including the Garfield Weston Foundation, Sabina Sutherland Charitable Trust and the Balsdon Trust.

Special thanks went to the organ restorers for their sympathy, patience and dedication.