WORCESTER Cathedral's pipe organ offered a timely reminder of why it needs to be replaced when it "exploded" in front of a packed congregation.

Choristers were stunned into silence when leatherwork within the organ gave out during evensong on Sunday, resulting in a loud bang.

However, salvation is on the way thanks to the start of a £5m "Music and Light" appeal which will fund two replacements for the tired organ, parts of which are nearly 100 years old.

Wind

"There was an extraordinary escaping of wind and everyone was wondering what would happen next," said Cathedral organist Adrian Lucas.

"We had to turn the organ off and we struggled our way through as the choir sang unaccompanied.

"We are used to the occasional problems with the organ but it has never actually 'exploded' before. It was quite frightening.

Money will also go towards creating a choral foundation to support the Cathedral's choirs as well as lighting.

The appeal kicks off tonight with a dramatic son et lumiere production.

Cathedral sees the return of the king

WORCESTER Cathedral is to be turned into a time machine in the next three days as it travels back to 983 AD and then fast-forwards to the present day.

One thousand years of history is to be told in words, drama, music and lights at the venue from tonight.

The special show has been produced by Peter Wild, the senior producer for BBC Pebble Mill, and will include such characters as King John and King Charles.

It will be backed by stunning effects that will highlight the exquisite interior architecture and fabric of the cathedral.

The magical evening of music and drama is part of a major appeal to secure the Cathedral's world-renowned musical heritage.

Tickets (£14 adults, £8 children) are available by calling 01905 611427. The production starts at 7.30pm tonight, tomorrow and Saturday.