THE bold sounds of Christchurch Priory's pipe organ have been enhanced thanks to a £20,000 grant.

Talbot Village Trust has awarded the church the funds to enlarge its pipe organ to enhance the music offering at services and weekly recitals.

The grant giving charity decided to support the application after hearing how the Priory runs a variety of community and educational activities and the improvements would enable an even wider outreach programme.

The church’s organ required the installation of 544 extra pipes and this expansion has allowed the organ to update its tonal resources and produce sound which is now comparable with a cathedral instrument.

Geoffrey Morgan, Christchurch Priory organist, said the extended organ has "surpassed" his expectations.

He said: “The Priory organ was already a fine instrument, but it lacked certain tone colours necessary for particular schools of organ music, and some tonal subtleties desirable in the accompaniment of our choral services."

Russell Lucas-Rowe, Trustee of Talbot Village Trust, added: “Christchurch Priory has been a focal point in the Christian community for many years and we are pleased to provide our support for the parish’s continued enjoyment.

“The Priory’s recitals, which are attended by a vast number of local people, often receive feedback stating that the music performed brings the congregation joy and is a pleasure to listen to.”