Family takeover at Tenbury's St Michael's church service

Led by churchwarden Julie Cook, the congregation awaited the second part of a talk by Gavin McEwan, who explored how music is a vital part of life and how it has become entwined with religion on June 4.

Next came a real surprise. He beckoned to Cameron, his son, to come forward and take over the piano from Jan Holloway the regular pianist.

Then came a confident violin solo from son accompanied by dad at the piano, before daughter Isla performed a delightful piano solo with colour and a delicate touch.

Both events were greeted with well-deserved applause and certainly cemented the theme of their father’s talk, said parochial church council vice-chair Tony Penn.

To round off this entertaining service, mum Eleanor led the prayers together with her two children.

Members of the congregation at the service were also curious as to why the Father Willis organ had disappeared from view, with a black plastic cover hiding its superb painted pipe façade.

Mr Penn said that this was the start of a building project due to last at least 18 weeks, with protecting the organ from dust a top priority. 

Do you have a Ludlow or Tenbury story you would like us to include? We would love to hear from you!

Send us your news by emailing news@ludlowadvertiser.co.uk or by clicking here.

Sharp eyes also noted that there is an outbreak of dry rot in the timber vaulting to the left of the organ. Specialists are advising on what action needs to be taken, but it is likely to be costly, Mr Penn said.

Mr Penn explained this work could all start after an application for funds from a foundation, from which the church has had a generous response.

But, he said, he is still awaiting guidance from them in publishing detailed information and how to acknowledge this wonderful news.

Permission to carry out the works was gained four years ago from all appropriate authorities, including formal permission from the Diocese, but has needed to be extended twice, once due to Covid.