MEMBERS of Padiham's Nazareth Unitarian Chapel have launched a £70,000 appeal after discovering the church organ is in need of vital repair.

The congregation have also been asked to help out to raise the money needed to refurbish the instrument completely.

Because of the urgency of the situation, the church committee decided to set up an organ fund and money has already started to come in.

The committee said that the two options open to them were to either restore the instrument or buy a modern, digital version to replace it.

If they opt to replace the organ, they have vowed to leave the original at the chapel.

Organist Barry Brown said they were in urgent need of help as the church simply did not have the cash needed to carry out repairs.

"This is a really fine instrument but it needs a complete overhaul or a digital replacement, both of which will be very expensive.

"The cheapest option we have is likely to cost around £20,000. We struggle to meet day-to-day costs, so this is an extra expense we can't afford without help.

"There is no question of getting rid of the organ because it is such an historical item and an asset to the church. Everyone who has played it says what a fine organ it is, but they are just so expensive to repair."

The organ, which dates from 1891, has problems with the bellows and the electrics, which no longer meet fire regulations

Anyone wanting to organise an event to raise money to support the fund should contact organist Barry Brown on 01282 773336.

If anyone wants to make a financial contribution, it should be handed to the church treasurer David Atkinson specifically marked Organ Fund.