A PAIR of summer fundraising concerts are planned for All Saints Church in Wyke Regis, Weymouth, to raise cash to spruce up an historical organ.

A classical concert on June 12 will feature Brahms and songs by Elgar.

This will be followed by a concert from the Grove Singers of London, a chamber choir of 40 singers, on July 19.

Profits from both events will go towards restoring the 1884 Henry Jones organ in All Saints Church.

Today there are only just over 100 Henry Jones organs remaining in existence.

Henry Jones was born in 1822 and became one of the great organ builders of the Victorian era, working from his business premises in London.

Although the church’s organ was restored in the 60s by George Osmond and Co of Taunton, and improved and enlarged by John Bugden of Taunton in 1993, environmental problems within the church have caused significant problems with the instrument, including tuning difficulties and sticking notes.

A survey carried out found that the instrument was extremely dirty throughout and was in need of a thorough clean to maintain a decent working condition.

Bryan Wood, director of music at All Saints Church said: “This is unfortunately very expensive as it involves major dismantling of the instrument and subsequent rebuild. “So a fundraising campaign is needed to ensure that this fine Henry Jones organ can continue to give immense pleasure to those listening to it for generations to come.”

The first concert on June 12 will feature a recital by Sophia Grech (mezzo soprano) Robert Secret (viola) and Duncan Honeybourne (piano).

The programme will include Brahms songs for voice, viola and piano; Schumann ‘Marchenbilder’ for viola and piano and songs by Elgar.

Refreshments will be available afterwards. Tickets cost £5 per head, all payable on the door on the day. All proceeds to the organ fund.

For the concert on July 19 featuring The Grove Singers, tickets cost £10 a person if bought in advance or £12 on the door on the night.

The cost will include a glass of wine or soft drink during the interval.

Tickets and details of the concert are available from Margaret Wood on 01305 774060, Jenny Hinde on 01305 771845, Karen Pallister on 01305 777827, or Maureen de Havilland on 01305 750836.