When we reopened Balmaghie Kirk in November 2018, we found that the Casson Organ, from The Positive Organ Company, appeared to have suffered badly over the years, possibly when it was taken from its original location at Tongland.

At that time we doubted whether it could be restored successfully due to the considerable damage to windways and pipework. Pipes were missing or damaged, the original casing had gone and the tracker (mechanical) action was out of regulation and only certain notes would play. Also the local environment had done little to assist as cold temperatures and the evidence of mice had taken its toll.

At the start of this year, with the help of Eileen Cawthorne, organist, we engaged the skills of a professional organ builder, Anthony Kitchen, to restore the organ. The organ was carefully dismantled and taken away for restoration and has now returned to the Kirk

To celebrate the organ's return and restoration to its former glory, on Sunday 15th October at 6.30pm we will be holding an Inaugural Organ Recital, featuring organists, Eileen Cawthorne and Michael Little with Lesley Sanderson on the Coronet. There will also be an opportunity to meet the organ restorer Anthony Kitchen after the concert. We look forward to seeing you there.

Tickets £10 available on the door.