THIEVES have caused thousands of pounds of damage to a historic organ.

An inspection at Tyldesley Top Chapel last Wednesday found that around 685 metal pipes has been ripped out of a John Nicholson organ which was stationed there and dates back to 1859.

The instrument is grade II* listed by the British Institute of Organ Studies.

The inspection was carried out by former chairman of the Tyldesley Building Preservation Trust, Peter Tyldesley, and Dr Jim Berrow, a leading independent expert on Nicholson organs.

Dr Berrow wanted to see the organ at the Upper George Street site in preparation for a book he is writing about Nicholson organs.

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Leigh Journal:

Before the organ was damaged

Leigh Journal:

After the damage was caused

Mr Tyldesley said: "This vandalism will cost thousands of pounds to remedy, and should be investigated as a potential heritage crime.

"The company which currently owns the chapel has been highly supportive of the ongoing work to record the building's history and it is only through its permission that this inspection was possible.

"The directors were appalled by the damage that was found.

"Dr Berrow has indicated that the pipes are predominantly lead, alloyed with tin and antimony. "Sadly it is likely that they were taken for their weigh-in value, which will be trivial compared to the cost of repairs.

"Should any of the local recycling yards have been offered the pipes, it would be most helpful if they would get in touch.”

Dr Bellow believes 60 per cent of the pipes are lead with the remaining 40 per cent being tin plus other impurities.

Before the damage the organ had 954 pipes with the ones that have not been taken mainly being made out of wood.

Leigh Journal:

Tyldesley Top Chapel on Upper George Street

The issue has been reported to Wigan Council conservation officer Ian Rowan.

If you have any information about the vandalism contact Peter on 07973 210210.