A LONE flautist will raise benevolent spirits when he pipes a tune to Herefordshire's St Faith next month.

The haunting music inside Dorstone Church will stir memories of last year's Music for a Summer Evening, when young county musician, Michael Kirkpatrick, held an audience spellbound with his tune, Towers.

The talented musician, who has performed, composed and directed at The Courtyard, Hereford, wrote the piece specially to raise money for the church tower, which is suffering serious structural faults, and will play again at the church on July 6.

Proceeds will go towards the £40,000-estimated costs needed to repair the tower and save the church and its colourful history - legend has it that one of the four knights who murdered Thomas a Becket, Richard de Brito, took sanctuary in Dorstone and after serving 15 years penance in the Holy Land founded a chapel there to absolve his share in the deed.

The fundraising concert, Music for a Summer's Weekend, will also feature two other young artists from last year. Classical guitarist Edward Mowat and soprano, Corinne Hart will play on the first day of the event. County schools and colleges are also being asked to propose young musicians.

Soul searching

On July 7, Benjamin Bevan and Juliet Schiemann, described as 'two young lions from the world of international singing', will soul search when they sing inside St Faith's. Juliet studied at The Royal Academy of Music and has sung for The English National Opera and the Royal Opera House. Benjamin has sung for the English Touring Opera and made an international debut in Lausanne last year.

Fundraising organisers are planning a second major event in the village on July 21. Cricketers are being asked to sign up for a six-a-side competition between local and celebrity teams. The day will include live music in the evening.

The events form part of St Faith's official Tower Appeal launch and organisers are appealing for the county to help save their church, which has stood at the heart of the village for more than 1,000 years.

For further information about the appeal, the fundraising events or to make a donation contact Tricia on 01981 550112.