Churchgoers might have to resort to karaoke on Sundays unless a new organist comes forward in the New Year.

For the past 10 years the congregation at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Dymchurch have sung hymns to music played by their own organist Ray Moses, but a year ago he announced he would be leaving, due to other commitments.

Over the past 12 months no one has stepped forward to take his place and there are now just weeks until he leaves at the end of January.

If another organist cannot be found the congregation will have to resort to singing along to recorded music.

Monica Snares, wife of vicar the Rev Peter Snares, said: “We have a sweet little organ here and a choir. We’ve been looking around for a new organist but haven’t found one yet.

“We’ve been using other organists out there over the last year and sometimes we’ve gone karaoke. But the people of Dymchurch are traditional and want an organist here.”

Organist Ray Moses said he wouldn’t be losing touch with Dymchurch but could not continue to work every Sunday.

He said:“Dymchurch is lucky as it has a very experienced choir and I have had an enormous amount of pleasure from being the organist. The trouble is organists are few and far between these days and people are reluctant to take on the regular commitment.”

uE06E If you can help, phone the church on 01303 269242.