A UNIQUE event is taking place at Winchester Cathedral where 14 historic mechanical organs are set to raise funds for a high-profile appeal.

The instruments date from 1878 to 2013 and will entertain music lovers, who can listen, learn how they work, and even play them.

The Festival of Mechanical Organs is raising money for the restoration of the medieval stained glass windows – a longstanding appeal by the Friends of Winchester Cathedral group.

Only a handful of these events take place in the south each year, and the Winchester date on May 4 will include some of the biggest organs in existence.

Volunteers at the festival come from a range of societies, including the Musical Box Society of Great Britain, Mechanical Organ Owners Society, Fair Organ Preservation Society, and British Organ Grinders Association.

The event, from 11am until 4pm on May 4 in Cathedral Close, is free although donations to the appeal are welcome.

For further information contact Lesley Bestwick on 01962 857244 or at lesley.bestwick@winchester-cathedral.org.uk.

The cathedral’s organ recital series also continues on May 4 at 4pm, with a programme by James Lancelot from Durham Cathedral.

Tickets cost £10 available from the box office by calling 01962 857275 or online at winchester-cathedral.org.uk.

Tate Slyfield