PIPE builders at one of Britain's oldest organ companies fear they could be driven out of business by new legislation.
Organ builders and restorers Harrison and Harrison, of Meadowfield, Durham, are concerned that an EU directive on hazardous substances, which is due to come into force in July, could put them out of business.
The directive would make the repair or replacement of organ pipes illegal because the lead used in them is considered hazardous to public health.
Officials from the Department for Trade and Industry have told organ builders that to ensure the directive succeeds they must be prepared to comply.
Harrison and Harrison plans to lobby MPs and has set up a website with a petition.
A spokesman for the Department of Trade and Industry said: "We have been working with the pipe organ industry for some time on this and are fully aware of the issue."
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