A highly successful music-at-thon at Beeston Methodist Church raised more than £4,000 towards the restoration and modernisation of the splendid 1902 pipe organ.
Seventy five local musicians, including organists, a string trio, vocalists, pianists, a flute quartet, folk musicians, a trumpet trio, three choirs and a baroque ensemble, performed in half hour slots throughout the day and night, filling the church with music for 24 hours.
The event culminated with a special Sunday morning service on August 21, attended by Broxtowe MP Darren Henry and his wife Caroline.
Organiser Fiona Fyfe said: “The music-a thon was a great success and enjoyed by all involved – whether playing, listening or helping behind the scenes. It was wonderful to be able to fill the church with an incredible variety of music. We are so grateful to all the performers and the many volunteers, who made the event possible.
“As well as raising more than £4,000 through donations and sponsorship, we were delighted by the number of people who came into the church to listen and support the performers. For some it was their first visit to Beeston Methodist Church.”
The music-a-thon was the latest in a rolling programme of fundraising events that have included organ recitals, garden parties, a quiz and a sponsored walk.
Beeston Methodist Church is planning a £1.6m modernisation scheme to enable it to respond better to community needs in the 21st century. The distinctive 120-year building on Chilwell Road is already used by hundreds of people a week, who attend a wide range of church and community activities.
As part of its commitment to the Mission Possible project, church members are now three quarters of the way towards their £200,000 target.
The next fundraising event is a craft fair at the church on Saturday, October 15 from 10am to 3pm. A wide range of crafts will be on view at the 18 stalls with refreshments and light lunches available through the day.