After doing noble service for over 60 years, the time came in 1968 for a major rebuilding exercise. The bomb damage incurred during the war, as well as the wear and tear of the years meant that the instrument needed major work. As well as the cleaning, to remove over 60 years of accumulated dust and dirt (not to mention the dust from the bomb and the rebuilding work on the roof), the mechanism had a number of serious problems which meant that it had become virtually unplayable.
A major, and quite ambitious scheme was produced by Mr Roy Tunstall, the organist at that time, in conjunction with the Cathedral Organists, John Saunders & Roger Fisher, with the work to be done by the celebrated firm of Henry Willis & sons. The plan involved moving the console from its position under the organ screen to its current position. Various changes to the pipework were made providing a brighter and greater variety of sounds. The new console provided all possible aids for the organist and greatly extended the flexibility of the new Organ. All this work came to about £9000 - quite an investment for a small village but, such was the local support for the Organ appeal, the money was raised quite quickly.
Since then, no major work has been needed. A humidifier was provided which will certainly extend the life of the organ and prevent the problems associated with drying out of the leathering on the bellows (a common problem in summer). After the installation of the new lighting system the opportunity was taken to clean one of the main areas of pipework - the ‘Great’ section - a wise decision in view of the dust generated by drilling holes for the various light and cable fittings.