A FUNDRAISING concert to rebuild ‘Emily’, the much-loved Edwardian organ at St Mark’s Church in Upper Hale, is being held on Thursday, June 2.

The organ was named after local benefactor Emily Mangles, who raised the money to buy it around 100 years ago.

Emily’s leatherwork is now perishing, the reservoir is leaking and sounds noisy, and the electrical components are faulty and unsafe. The task before St Mark’s it to have Emily rebuilt, rather than just restored.

Rev Lesley Crawley said: “We have received a lot of advice from the organ builder, and the asbestos has already been removed from the blower. £21,000 is still needed for the general clean and overhaul. A ‘Sponsor a Pipe’ scheme is in place, but this needs bolstering by other fundraising initiatives.’

The organ recital will be given by Frances Whewell at 2pm at St Mark’s, with an interlude by Bob and Lesley Shatwell on violin and double bass.

Frances said: “There will be a few surprises - not least the unpredictability of Emily - hence the need for financial help!”

The free event is being hosted by the ‘Teacakes’ group, and tea will be served in the church as the music is played. All are very welcome and there will be a collection for Emily at the end.