Wurlitzer star helps raise charity funds

Date:  22 November 2006

PR Reference No.: Wurlitzer star helps raise charity funds

Celebrity organist Len Rawle helped to raise £650 for charity on Friday night (17 November) at the St Albans Organ Theatre. The special evening was hosted by Three Rivers Chairman, Councillor David Major.

Len Rawle, who has starred in a number of television programmes including the classic BBC Metroland documentary and Blue Peter, played a range of show tunes and other popular music on a pair of antique organs. Len's playlist included Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Andrew Lloyd Webber, JP Souza and Ronald Binge.

Three Rivers District Council Chairman, Councillor David Major, said:

"This was an unusual and joyful event. Organs have been a large part of my own career. I'm grateful to Len Rawle and the Organ Theatre and its trustees for their support.

"The money raised will go to the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted which has provided care and support for many Three Rivers residents."

Len Rawle performed on Wurlitzer and Rutt pipe theatre organs. Both instruments began life in North London cinemas, providing solo performances and accompanying silent movies.

Chorleywood resident and organist, Len Rawle, said:

"The Organ Theatre was a delightful setting in which to make music. The response of the audience was extremely warm, which indicates the high quality of the remarkable instruments in the collection.

"I enjoyed the evening very much and I feel that we are keeping something from yesteryear for the next generation."

The Chairman's fifty guests were also treated to a demonstration of street organs, dance organs and musical boxes from the theatre's collection.

Residents can make a donation to the Chairman's chosen charity, the Hospice of St Francis, by contacting Three Rivers District Council enquiries@threerivers.gov.uk 01923 727 281

More information about Len Rawle is available from www.lenrawle.co.uk