The organ in St. Thomas' Church Winchelsea was built in 1931 as a memorial to the two brothers of Lord Blanesburgh and his two nephews killed in the Boer and First World Wars. After 86 years the organ is in desperate need of restoration because with the passage of time the organ has begun to show signs of its age, with off-notes, sticking keys, sticking sliders and wind leakage. Periodically a number of the minor faults have been corrected but it is clear they will continue to recur until a comprehensive programme of restorative works is put in place.

On the positive side the tonal projection of the organ is enhanced by its elevated west end position. Furthermore, its lined chamber minimises sound absorption by the masonry and makes this a worthwhile project. There are six principle areas of work:

• Taking down and thoroughly cleaning all the organ

• Investigating and resolving wind leakage issues

• To achieve tonal enhancements by revoicing and regulating the pipework

• Refurbishment of the pedalboard and swell box

• Pipework — to re-leather all the action to the case pipework to improve reliability and efficiency

• To Restore the Tremulant

The organ is located in a citadel of peace devoted to the community & visitor to the Ancient Town of Winchelsea for over 700 years.