AN appeal to raise funds for the restoration of a century-old church organ is to be launched this weekend.

Committee members of Christchurch in Govilon have been told that essential repair work to the organ could cost between £4,000 and £5,000.

Church warden Mary Owen said the organ, which was installed in 1906, needs a lot of attention, and that the final cost won't be known until it is dismantled by specialists.

Stuart Draper, who has been the organist for 25 years, explained that it is a vital part of worship and of the history of the church.

Built by Harrison and Harrison of Durham, the organ was dedicated by the Rev Joshua Pritchard Hughes, Lord Bishop of Llandaff.

The company made its name by crafting organs for Durham Cathedral, the Royal Albert Hall, King's College Cambridge and Westminster Abbey.

The committee are planning a number of fund-raising events to help pay for the work, starting with a launch on Friday night at the church when an organ-shaped cake and a glass of wine will be on offer from 7pm onwards.

The event is open to all when visitors can listen to the organ being played and offers the chance to have a go at playing it. Tickets are £1 on the door, children go free.

The evening is part of the Harvest weekend when the church will be open on Saturday between 10am and 5pm and on Sunday between 2pm and 5pm.

A Harvest supper is to be held at 7.15pm on Saturday night. Tickets are £5. Call the Reverend Alex Pye on 01873 830342 for details.