TINTAGEL talent, Sheila Flower, has played the organ, for an astonishing 70-years.

Her passion for playing the organ began in 1938, at the age of six, when she first learned how to play the piano, with an inspiring teacher, the late Royland Jordan of Launceston.

Sheila went on to do her first exam, and scored 99 out of 100, receiving a silver medal from the Trinity College of Music, London.

Following this, her teacher in Launceston joined the Army, so Sheila went to Mr Worth of Bodmin, and then later went to Mrs George in Tintagel when the war was on.

When Sheila was 11-years-old, Mr Jordan came out if the Army and she went to St Mary’s Church in Launceston, where she learnt the organ.

At the age of 14, Sheila attended Trewarmett Chapel, where she went as a young girl. Tintagel Methodist Church had no one playing the organ at that time, so the Minister, the Rev T Michael, and the head steward, Mr Cowling, asked Sheila if she would come along to Tintagel to play.

Sheila accepted, and was there for six months on her own.

During this time, the organ wasn’t electric, and was instead pumped by hand by Jack Winnacott. There was also a full choir of women on one side, with men on the other. Howard Irons used to practice the choir for special occasions.

Sheila went on to play for Tintagel Male Voice Choir for 50-years, and Wadebridge Male Voice Choir for another ten years.

She also once played the Truro Cathedral organ when Wadebridge visited for a Christmas Concert, which Sheila says that she ‘shall never forget’.

Sheila has also played organs in many cities when on holiday. She continues to play at Tintagel Methodist Church, but is now part of a team of three, consisting of June Burnard, Joyce Brown and herself.

Sheila also helps at the parish church when needed. She continues to enjoy playing the organ, with music playing a huge part in her life.

“That is my 70-years as an organist, and I hope to continue for as long as I can.”