BROADWAY Church goers have welcomed a new organist into their midst.

Linda Bloxham, a teacher at Dormer House School in Moreton-in-Marsh, answered an appeal in the Journal earlier this year after Joe Lemm, the previous organist at St Michael and All Angels, retired. Now she's got her feet firmly on the pedals, playing at weekly Sunday services and at funerals and weddings.

Linda said: "I have had lots of experience as a church organist and am very happy to be here in Broadway.

"My main aim is to boost the church choir. We have 13 at the moment and I would like to see at least ten more join up.

"Age is no barrier and experience is not necessary, as long as people enjoy singing and can spare a short time practising early Friday evenings and attending Sunday services. Anyone who is interested can contact me on 01451 830327."

The vicar of St Michael's Canon Peter Burch said: "We are very pleased to welcome her. She's nice and friendly and just what we needed."

Canon Burch gave village folk cause for concern in the summer when he was ill for two months after a heart attack. He is now back taking services almost full-time, but needs to take things steady until his operation, which is expected next year.

Canon Burch said: "I am managing two out of three services on Sunday, but have to take it a bit easy. I have very good assistant clergy who help out."