A CHURCH is calling on the community for support in its mission to obtain an urgently needed new organ.

St Mary’s Parish Church in Dedham High Street has an organ which was installed by Hill of London in 1843.

However, decades of use have led to its demise and it is now deemed to be beyond repair.

The church has now set its sights on a 100-year-old vintage organ in Glasgow and is raising £280,000 to refurbish and relocate the instrument to Dedham.

A spokesperson for the church said: “The organ was built in 1902 by J J  Binns in Leeds and is currently in Mosspark, Glasgow.

“One of the reasons this organ has been chosen is it that it will fit comfortably into the current organ case, high up in the west end gallery.

“Binns organs are known for their suberb build quality and longevity, giving them the nickname ‘Battleship Binns’.”

The work will be undertaken by Nicholson and Co, organ Builders of Malvern, Worcestershire.

Antony Watson, director of music at St Mary's Church said he was overwhelmed by the generosity and support of the community.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Upgrade - The Dedham church would like to obtain a new organ.Upgrade - The Dedham church would like to obtain a new organ.

Following a recent concert to kick-start the project given by The Kelvedon Singers, an incredibly generous anonymous donor has given this project a huge start, having been delayed for several years, in part due to the pandemic.

Antony said: “It is such a privilege to serve the people of Dedham in providing music, not only on Sundays but also for life events such as weddings and funerals.

“Having a reliable new organ that can be properly maintained will enable us to keep up this provision for generations to come."

Continuing its fundraising efforts, the church will host an Organathon and gift day, with organists from far and wide providing 24 hours of continuous music over two days.

Antony added: “We hope this event will raise the profile of this  project and we'll get to hear lots of wonderful music, enjoy some  refreshments, and importantly help us to raise some funds.”

The event will take place on Sunday, August 28, between 11am to 9pm and bank holiday Monday, August 29 from 7am to 9pm.

For more information and to donate visit bit.ly/3SVlgGL.