Manual
Open Diapason             8ft
Lieblich Gedact           8
Keraulophon               8
Principal                 4
Flute                     4
Fifteenth                 2

Mechanical key and drawstop action
Manual compass 56 notes
Pedal compass 30 notes
Wind pressure 3 inches
Electric blower

The church of St Michael & All Angels occupies a lonely position at the side of the A167 road, a few miles south of Northallerton, within sight of the East Coast main railway line. Until 1998, music for services was provided by a harmonium. When the neighbouring church at Thornton-le-Beans was closed, the opportunity was taken to aquire the redundant pipe organ. This little organ had previously seen service at nearby Thornton-le-Moor, until that church was closed following structural problems.

An initial site visit revealed the organ to be in an unplayable condition as a result of standing in the disused church for a number of years. Although only very limited funds were available, we felt that the organ could be restored to working order and given a new home at North Otterington. In due course the instrument was removed to our workshop for restoration.

Upon dismantling, it became clear that the soundboard was in a very sorry state, having received some very drastic 'first aid' treatment at some point in its history, no doubt in an attempt to alleviate problems caused by severe warping of the upperboards and sliders. The upperboards were trued up, new sliders of PVC manufactured and Schmidt slide seals fitted, effectively eliminating any problems associated with 'running' and ensuring that all pipes now speak on their full quota of wind.

Full credit must go to churchwarden Mr J.T. Hill, without whose vision and enthusiasm this project could never have been fulfilled. We are proud to have been able to provide another country church with a real pipe organ.