THE St James's West Malvern organ refurbishment fund is now within £5,000 of its target, following a highly successful gift and promise auction, a recital a week later by cathedral organist John Wilderspin and continuing donations.

"The response to our appeal for funds has been terrific," said organist John Raine. "People have been really generous and we have a huge amount of support from within and outside the village - from people with local connections - as well as, of course, from the members of the congregation at St James's.

"We are now on course to undertake the refurbishment work in August and to be back in action by harvest festival."

The work includes stripping the instrument down for cleaning, repairing warped soundboards, renewing the electric motors and leatherwork, and adding a trumpet and trombone stop.

The next fundraising event is an Open Gardens event in West Malvern on Sunday, June 10, from 2pm to 6pm. Eight beautiful gardens can be enjoyed on one ticket (adults £4, children free) with teas and plant stalls also provided. Contact John Raine (01684 565052 or email j.w.raine@bham.ac.uk) for a guide to the open gardens.