THE organ at St Curig's Church, Porthkerry requires significant restoration to extend its playing life.

This unique organ is a World War 1 memorial with a brass plaque attached to it naming the men of the Parish who did not return from the War.

It is often said that the 'Battle of Waterloo' was won on the playing fields of Eton so could the Battle of the Somme in the first World War have been won on the playing fields of Cowbridge School.

Several of the names on the plaque were old boys of Cowbridge School with its strong tradition of sports and athletics.

It is therefore apt that in order to raise money for this restoration Graham Loveluck Edwards from Rhoose has decided to run in the Dublin Marathon which takes place on October 27.

Graham formerly served with the Royal Green Jackets (light infantry regiment) in the 1990's.

He used to run in five and 10k Competitions for Chepstow Harriers. Thus the challenge of raising the funds required to restore the organ and the Lychgate at the Church inspired Graham to have another crack at running a marathon.

So far the parishioners at St Curig's have sponsored Graham to the tune of £300 but a lot more is needed and we are appealing to the generosity of the readers.

Donations can be made online at http//www.gofundme.com/d4g7eg or you can follow the links from the ''Parish of Porthkerry and Rhoose'' Facebook page.