ST Peter's Church in Cradley is launching a fundraising drive to pay for the £7,000 refurbishment of its 1933 Compton Pipe Organ.

The vintage organ last hit the high notes in 2011 when its "lungs packed up" in 2011 after 78 years service at the historic church.

However, a replacement air blower has been rescued from the demolished St Luke's Church, Cradley Heath, after organist James Brookes realised it could breathe new life into St Peter's organ

He said: "When I read about St Luke’s organ, I discovered that the organist at St Peter’s Cradley trained the organist at St Luke’s.

"It seemed a lovely touch to bring something of St Luke’s back to St Peter’s Cradley.”

The Diocese of Worcester has given the organ parts to St Peter’s Church for a nominal fee and James, with Tim Newey, organist at St Andrew’s Netherton and artist Luke Perry moved the 250kg blower and fan to Cradley where it awaits being lifted into the organ loft, reconnected and set to work.

However, before the Compton organ can be heard again, its electrics need replacing as well as other repairs carried out which will cost an estimated £7,000.

St Peter’s Church is launching a Crowdfunding campaign on Easter Sunday from midday to pay for the organ.

St Peter's vicar Reverend Katryn Leclézio said: “We are appealing to the many people who live locally to help us raise the money to restore this piece of our heritage.

“Many people have had weddings and funerals in the church and the organ has given those important life events an added dimension.

"It would be fantastic to have the organ restored by the contributions of those who have appreciated in the past.”

She added: "A good quality organ adds an ambience that is both beneficial and valuable to the weddings and funerals held in St Peter’s.

We would like the people of our community and beyond, to be part of the hope for its future and to be able to express their gratitude for it.

Andrew Moyes, an organ restoration expert, said: "St Peter’s Compton organ was made to a very high standard and, unlike many, has not been spoiled by subsequent alterations.

"It is a good candidate for renovation and would serve the church again for many decades.”

For more information about the fundraising campaign visit www.stpeterscradley.org.