An ambitious Christmas Concert, the first for many years, will be staged at St Luke's Church Grayshott at 6.30pm on Sunday 7th December.

Organised by Grayshott Concerts. the event called "It's Christmas!" will be performed by Grayshott's new choir, Excelsis with soloists, together with the Choristers of St Edmunds School Hindhead, accompanied by a sparkling brass ensemble and conducted by Grayshott's Director of Music, Robert Lewis

The choir, which made its debut performance to rave reviews in February, is making its second public appearance in the village to raise funds for the St Luke's Church Organ Appeal.

The Appeal Fund Chairman, Gordon Sanderson, said: "The St Luke's Church Organ has been playing for almost one hundred years now, so deserves a little tender loving care. It's a wonderful instrument which experts agree is far too good to be replaced by an electronic alternative. Repairs will cost about £15,000 but the good news is that we've already raised over £5,000 from events and donations in only a few weeks."

John Haine, the Appeal Treasurer, is delighted. "We've got a number of ideas going for raising the money needed and donations are going well too. It's good to see that local people are so supportive of this lovely organ which so many have enjoyed at weddings, services and concerts. We're grateful for any help however large or small."

Concert organiser, Vivien Harrison, believes it's another first for Grayshott. "We've had a concert like this in mind for quite a while - but never before had the resources to do it. It's going to be a delightful programme of Christmas music, carols and readings including many old favourites and some new ones too. Something for everyone! And all in aid of this terrific church organ."

Grayshott Concerts has built a reputation for sell-out performances, so are recommending early booking. Tickets are only £10, all allocated, and can be reserved by contacting the box office on 01428 606666 or at www.grayshottconcerts.co.uk. Booking is officially open on Saturday 8th November. More information on the Appeal from Gordon Sanderson 01428 605819.

Grayshott's new Vicar, the Revd Moray Thomas, with the St Luke's Church organ