Barbara Garnsworthy relates the small but mighty story of fundraising to restore the organ in St Mary’s church, Chettle.
“Organ building is part of my family history: after training as an apprentice with the prestigious Durham firm, Harrison and Harrison, my great grandfather, Henry John Nelson, set up his own business in 1880, which was continued by my grandfather, Arthur, until his retirement in 1967. When I found out that the organ in our parish church needed an overhaul, it felt only natural that I should want to help.
“After the death of our mother, Joy Garnsworthy (nee Nelson), my siblings and I decided to kick start fundraising for the restoration project with a donation of £3000 in memory of the Nelson family. The total needed was in the region of £12,000, a hefty sum for a small parish like ours. The PCC contributed £2000, and we also received £600 from the ON Organ Fund.
“This still left us with quite a sum to raise! We held a number of events, including musical evenings and concerts hosted by our churchwarden, as well as teas in the village hall and a sell-out village history slide show. Alongside the funds raised at these and other events, we were fortunate to receive some very generous private donations.
“The restoration itself began in 2023, progressing steadily alongside our fundraising efforts. Finally, in August 2025, friends, family and supporters gathered for an evening recital by John Radford, the diocesan organ advisor, who had put together a carefully selected programme to showcase the qualities of the organ.
“Since then, it has been a real joy to hear the organ back in use. It once again sits at the heart of church life, accompanying services, weddings and special occasions, bringing people together through music. Many have commented on the richness and warmth of its sound, and how beautifully it now fills the church.
“What tips would I give to anyone considering a similar project? Research grant-giving bodies thoroughly before you start. There are only a handful of specialist organ funders (these and others are listed on the diocesan website), but most importantly, look for local funders, too, where there may be less competition.”