A CHURCH has launched a £300,000 appeal to buy a new organ.

St Cuthbert's Church, in Darlington Market Square, has been struggling with an instrument installed in 1879, and church leaders want to replace it.

"We reckon we need to find between £300,000 and £400,000,'' said the Reverend Robert Williamson.

"We are doing our best to raise money first and we are hoping to get some grants from organ trusts. The current organ will be 125 years old this year when instruments only have a life of about 50 years," he said.

The church has raised £11,000 towards the fund and will be holding events to boost the total further.

On Saturday, March 20, musicians will gather at 7.30pm to perform John Rutter's Requiem.

Tickets, at £5, or £3 for concessions, are available in advance from Gill Tiffin on (01325) 487274, or at the door.

People interested in joining a choir for the performance can call the same number.

Donation to the organ appeal can be made by sending a cheque, payable to St Cuthbert's Church Organ Fund, to Brian Johnson, 16 Woodburn Drive, Darlington.