A ST ANNES vicar is hoping his musical talent will help to put a church up rather than bring the house down.

The Rev Nigel Uden, of St Annes on Sea United Reformed Church, is hoping to raise the rafters - and lots of cash - with a 24-hour sponsored musical marathon which will take place from 7.30pm tomorrow (Friday, April 11) until the same time the following evening.

Nigel will no doubt have to catch up on his sleep before the Sunday service next morning, but it's not a new experience for the musical minister.

He told the Citizen: "I have done similar events in previous parishes and they always seem to be successful because they capture people's imagination.

"Everyone in the church has been asked to do their bit and I grew up playing the piano, so I decided I had to do something musical."

The church needs to raise around £30,000 for vital repairs.

Parishioner Ray Allen-Frost, who is in charge of distributing sponsor forms for the event, said: "We have had a good response so far and lots of pledges of money on the sponsor forms but there are more forms left if anyone thinks they can help."

The Rev Uden will be playing both the piano and organ during the 24-hour period and has a wide repertoire of hymns to keep him going.

All are welcome to pop into the church and listen at any time during the event and anyone who wants to sponsor the vicar should call Ray on (01253) 711465.

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