The Robert Wolfe Organ Concert was a
great success with
profits of
£3.000.00 which have been sent to the local cancer charity, Big C in
Jimmy’s memory as he had supported that charity for many years with the
raffle at the Christmas Party..
The concert was an evening with a difference. A quality BBQ outside from
about 5.30pm and light refreshments available in the museum. Jimmy’s
beloved Burrell Showman’s engine was in steam nearby with its coloured
lights lit by electricity from its own generator. Other steam engines were
also in steam to add to the uniqueness of the occasion.
The
Christie organ spent its working life at Reigate cinema where it was
installed in October 1935 at a total cost of £1900. In its first year £30
secured twelve monthly visits to tune and service it. The organ was
removed to the Reliance Garage at Kings Lynne in 1973 and Ted Ransom sold
it in 1982 to Rollie Walker at Wellingborough. Robert Ince rebuilt the
organ on site and in 1997 was asked to dismantle and rebuild it at
Strumpshaw ready for the annual Christmas party. He has maintained it
since then.
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