A CHURCH in Hale is calling for one last push to raise the final amount needed to save its Edwardian organ, affectionately known as ‘Emily’.

St Mark’s, in Upper Hale, has been fundraising to restore the organ which was given to the church in 1906 by benefactor Emily Mangles. It is in need of a total overhaul at a cost of £23,000 and now all but £559 has been raised.

The money has been raised by the generosity of local people, including Herald owner Sir Ray Tindle, through grants, and through the work of fundraisers and people who have put on and taken part in cash-generating events.

Some of the money has come from pipe sponsorship – the organ has 524 pipes which need to be cleaned, and in some cases replaced – and individuals and organisations are encouraged to sponsor a pipe to raise the final £559.

Reverend Lesley Crawley, vicar of St Mark’s Church, said: “Emily is a beautiful Edwardian pipe organ which is over 100 years old. Sadly, she has been used very rarely over the past six years because, after a century of service, she is in need of a complete overhaul.

“Once she is restored she will be available for community events such as concerts, and children who are learning the organ will be able to practice on her once again.”

Pipes can be sponsored for £15, and the church will display all the names and notes that all the sponsors write on a ‘Sponsoring a Pipe’ manuscript. There will be a celebratory concert once ‘Emily’ has been restored.

To donate, e-mail Rev Crawley at [email protected].