...Almost there...

[KB7DQH]

Reverend calls for final push to raise organ cash

Tuesday, June 05, 2012


South Wales Evening Post


A CONGREGATION is within touching distance of completing a marathon fundraising effort.

Members and well-wishers at St Catherine's in Gorseinon have been busy raising the £90,000 needed to restore the church's historic pipe organ.

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Since the fundraising drive was launched in October 2008 a range of techniques have been used to get the cash rolling in to the coffers, from offering people the chance to "buy" and dedicate an organ pipe, through to 11-hour piano playing marathons, performances from choirs and local schools, comedy and drama shows, and cheese and wine evenings.

The dedicated team have raised some £80,000 — and now they are calling on supporters for one last push to help them reach their goal.

The congregation has arranged two events for Thursday to help boost the appeal — a sponsored walk and a sponsored sing-along.

Martin Cox, vicar of St Catherine's, said: "As the work on the organ nears completion, and we look forward to hearing the wonderful music it will produce, there is a renewed enthusiasm to reach our target of over £90,000 as soon as possible.

"People have worked tremendously hard and shown great generosity over the past few years."

Built by renowned organ craftsmen Nicholson and Sons of Worcester, the Gorseinon organ is believed to be one of only a handful of its kind left in Wales.

Work on restoring the piece of musical history began in May 2011, and is now approaching completion.

Organisers are hoping one last push will raise the final funds they need to finish the work and fill the church with music once more.

Thursday's events will see a sponsored walk from the church to the National Wetlands Centre at Penclacwydd for those who want to put their best foot forward, while at the same time there will be a sponsored sing-along in the church hall from 10am.

Revered Cox added: "Thursday's event promises to be entertaining and enjoyable for all ages and will, hopefully, take us closer to our goal."

jason.evans@swwmedia.co.uk

Eric
KB7DQH