LANCASTER folk are being invited to go to the city's Cathedral next week to Meet the Organ'.

The open evening will mark the launch of a search for sponsors to back the refurbishment of the ailing Victorian instrument at the heart of St Peter's.

For the organ, blessed and opened in January 1889, is in danger of losing its voice altogether, says Canon Stephen Shield, Dean of St Peter's and a talented organ player.

The 1,886 pipe organ, built by Henry Ainscough of Preston, has seen little work done in its 116 years history a new electric motor to operate the bellows in 1905 and a new console and electric action in 1975.

But now the cathedral needs up to £100,000 to fund a full restoration.

Tasks for the refurbishment team include everyting from tasts as simple as cleaning out the impressive build-up of dirt and dust that causes tuning problems to restoring the leather of the bellows.

They have remained untouched since 1889 and have now deteriorated to such an extent that the organ could potentially be silenced altogether, says Canon Shield.

The fund raising will start next Friday, November 18, at 7.30pm, when Canon Shield will join local organists Geoffrey Cassidy and Paul McFadden in presenting a Meet the Organ event at the Cathedral.

It will explore the pipe organ through images, music and commentary and will officially unveil an Adopt-A-Pipe scheme which will allow locals to sponsor the refurbishment of a pipe (or group of pipes) in their own name or in honour or memory of a friend or relative.

A variety of price ranges will be on offer to suit all budgets, and all donors will receive a sponsorship certificate and be entered in the Organ Appeal Book on display in the Cathedral.

Admission to the evening is free and includes tea and cake afterwards in the cathedral social centre.

For more details, call Caroline Hull, vvents co-ordinator at St Peter's, on 01524-384820 or e-mail clergy@lancastercathedral.org.uk.