INTERNATIONALLY renowned organist David Briggs is returning Blackburn Cathedral to play the organ on which he first performed at the age of 14.

Now 51, he is to play his own organ transcription of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony Number Two, known as the Resurrection Symphony, on June 14, from 7.30pm.

Mr Briggs was a schoolboy when he first came to Blackburn and gave a recital on the cathedral instrument.

He has been back several times since and more recently gave a recital when the organ had been given a complete overhaul in 2002.

Cathedral director of music Samuel Hudson said: “David Briggs is one of the country’s leading organists as well as a composer. He has written music specially for the cathedral choir and we are delighted he is coming to perform this great work, which was written for a full concert orchestra.

“He has transcribed it just for the organ with soloists.”

Tickets, from £5, are available from King George’s Hall box office by calling 0844 8471664.