A TALENTED musician is needed to crank up the organ at St Stephen's Church in Redditch.

The Rev Patricia Barford said the church urgently needs a new organist to play at Sunday services and special occasions.

The position has become available following the death of musical stalwart Harvey Morris, aged 83, in May.

Mr Morris served 63 years as an organist and choirmaster at St Stephen's Church and 31 years as Redditch Cremator-ium's organist. Michael Atack has been filling in during the interim but now the Church Green church needs someone to take on the role permanently.

"Michael has been wonderful but does not want the position permanently," explained Mrs Barford.

She said the position would require someone with experience of playing a church organ.

"They would need to be available to play at the Sunday services, although Michael has said he would play one Sunday a month if required. There is also a possibility they could be asked to play at weddings and funerals, although we do have other organists available if the new person only wants to work at weekends.

"However, we would like to speak to anyone who is interested in the position."

She added: "The usual payments for Sunday service would be available, along with additional payments for funerals, weddings and other services."

Anyone interested in the position can call Mrs Barford on 61543.