An organist’s tribute Central Durham Crematorium

Every Sunday afternoon, for the past ten years (with very few exceptions) Geoffrey Gregg has been playing the organ at the Central Durham Crematorium chapel.

The idea was born when Geoffrey, an accomplished organist, asked if he could play one Sunday a month as a tribute to his father Arthur, and mother Agnes May Gregg, who had been cremated at Durham.

The Sunday afternoons when Geoffrey played the organ, were so popular that Geoffrey agreed to play every Sunday afternoon. Such is the popularity, that apart from playing "requests" every week, Geoffrey has even played a request after receiving a telephone call on his "mobile", allowing a lady unable to come to the crematorium for a family anniversary to hear her favourite hymn. Geoffrey, who gives his services entirely on a voluntary basis, thoroughly enjoys his weekly visit to the crematorium, very often accompanied by his faithful dog Patch, who waits patiently in the car, ready for "walkies" at the end of each busy afternoon. Story by Alan Jose.

And that's not Geoffrey's only talent, he also sets The Banner crossword - see the current edition for his latest puzzle.

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