A VERY familiar face will be missing at the organ for the carol service at St Oswald's Church, West Rounton, on Sunday.

For the first time in 74 years, Cissie Harrison will not accompany the carols.

A native of Durham, 92-year-old Mrs Harrison has spent most of her life in the village. She retired from the position of organist a couple of months ago, but if it isn't too cold, she hopes to be amongst the congregation of the church she loves so much.

Before her stint at St Oswald's, she was organist at St Lawrence's Church in East Rounton for 15 years.

She still plays her piano at her cottage and says: "Playing the organ has kept my fingers nimble."

A widow since 1978, Mrs Harrison was also treasurer at the church for 33 years. She has seen six vicars come and go, and in days gone by, organised a group of young musicians to provide concerts. She has also taught many young people to play.

She has always kept abreast of the times and adapted to modern hymns.

"Hymn playing has always been my favourite, and I quite like some of the new quicker, joyful tunes," she said.

A few years ago she was invited to a Buckingham Palace garden party in recognition of her contribution to music.

She hasn't given up all her hobbies: she is a keen bridge player at the pub across from her cottage.

Churchwarden Michael Nightingale said: "Mrs Harrison has made a tremendous contribution to the church and has been a real stalwart. We are struggling to find someone to replace her.

"We have organists helping out, but Mrs Harrison will be much missed."