SUNDAY, May 29, saw the launch of All Saints’ Organ appeal - in a bid to raise £70,000 for major repairs and restoration of its historic pipe organ.

The pipe organ dates back to 1915 and was built by Evans & Barr of Belfast. It is a fine instrument of historical merit and one of the treasures of the church. In 1987 the organ was extended and modified, using additional pipe work from Salem Baptist Chapel, Porth.

It was re-dedicated by the Lord Bishop of Llandaff on December 8, 1989, dedicated to the ‘Greater Glory of God’ and in memory of the late Dorothy Gladys Holland whose bequest largely financed the work.

By nature of their age and complexity, pipe organs require refurbishing every 25-30 years and the organ at All Saints’ has now reached this stage.

Although regularly cared for, the wind chest which supplies air to the pipes needs to be re-leathered. Air is leaking from it and you can hear this leakage when the organ is played. Many pipes are not working consistently and soundboards also need replacing.

The Parochial Church Council has therefore decided to launch an appeal to raise funds to restore the organ. Alternative options have been explored - eg purchase of an electric organ. However, restoration of this fine instrument represents the best value for money. An appeal leaflet has been launched and this will be widely distributed over the coming weeks and months. Additionally, much work is being undertaken to invite support via grants, pipe sponsorship, individual donations and attendance at fundraising events. The events programme commenced with a sponsored walk on June 4, 2011.

Further events planned include a harvest supper (September), autumn lunches (November), speciality evenings and concerts to name but a few, and it is hoped that the whole community will support these events.

Father Adrian Berry said: "The church exists for the whole community and I am sure that we all want to have a lovely organ available for all sorts of occasions."

The Parochial Church Council hopes that the appeal will be well supported over the coming 12-24 months.

For further information visit www.barryallsaints.org.uk To make a donation send to: Organ Appeal c/o Canon Adrian Berry, 3 Park Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 6NU.