A West Cumbrian church organist has completed a marathon 3,800-mile cycle ride to help restore the historic organ he plays.
John Corran pedalled back to his home church of St Paul’s Irton, near Gosforth, after he cycled to every St Paul’s church in the country.
In 2019, John, 69, a retired headteacher, came up with the idea to visit the churches to raise funds for the restoration of the Grade II listed, 147-year-old Nicholson organ which he plays at Irton.
He said: “In 2018 we had a thorough survey completed of the organ to establish what work needed to be done. Those in the know in the organ world say it’s a fantastic instrument and one which is very much worth keeping.”
His epic journey began in May and saw him travel the length and breadth of England, starting in Chacewater, near Truro, heading over to the Isle of Wight and making it as far north as Branxton on the Scottish border.
It took him 60 days and he visited 253 churches. He was able to call on friends, family and churches across the country who helped provide food and accommodation.
John said: “I’ve been cycling 50 or 60 miles most days, though some were longer, sometimes 90 miles. I love getting out on the bike; you see so much more than you would in a car.”
Irton churchwarden Janet Jennings said: “We are all absolutely amazed at what John has done. The restoration of our church organ is so important to him and we can’t thank him enough for all he’s done.”
John is looking to raise £80,000 towards the organ restoration fund, which would mean the organ could be dismantled, cleaned and some missing pipes replaced.
He added: “I know of a number of young people who have already expressed an interest in learning to play the organ at St Paul’s Irton. It would be wonderful to think that the instrument would be around for another 147 years for future generations.”
His cycle ride has raised more than £3,000 and though his journey is now complete, John said there was still time for people to donate via his JustGiving page.
Visit https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/john-corran-irton-organ
