Jazz band swings into action for old church

A JAZZ concert is to be held inside a disused Victorian church as part of a campaign to raise vital funds for its restoration.

On August 15, Christ the Consoler, near Newby Hall, will start to swing as The Good Dog Happy Band, a four piece jazz combo, kick off their performance at 2pm, featuring a variety of tunes and improvisations onwell known American folk and country themes.

The band was formed by Seattle-born trumpet player Matt Postle , who has performed at jazz festivals and clubs around the world.

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Jean Banwell, North Yorkshire community officer for the Churches Conservation Trust, said: "The stage is set for a truly memorable afternoon of jazz music.

"I don't think any better setting could be found to compliment jazz music with Christ the Consoler's fantastic acoustics and extravagant interior."

Funds raised will help in the conservation. Work is needed to lower the humidity inside the church, through a conservation heating project, and to conserve the beautiful stained glass.

It is the sixth event staged by the Churches Conservation Trust at the Victorian church. Previous fund-raisers included a flower festival by Askham Bryan College, a gig by Canadian acoustic guitarist Rick Bockner, and a family archaeology weekend.

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Built in 1871-76, the church stands as an extravagant memorial to a young man, Frederick Vyner, who was murdered while travelling in Greece.

His mother used the money collected for his ransom to commission the famous Victorian architect, William Burges, to build the church in the grounds of her home at Newby Hall.

n Booking for the concert is advised. Tickets are 7 and 5.50 concessions from The Visitor Officer, Holy Trinity Church, 70 Goodramgate, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7LF.

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