A project has begun to capture the sound of Huddersfield's organs for posterity.

It follows a decision by the HOA committee to compile a sound archive featuring local instruments, some of which are under threat.

The project is being run by Simon Smith, an association member and an electrical engineer at Huddersfield Town Hall. His expertise in recording techniques and access to digital technology will allow stereo recordings to be made on digital audio tape for eventual transfer to CD.

Pilot recordings have already been made at six churches, including Holy Trinity, Huddersfield Parish Church, and Westwood, Golcar, where the church has now closed

Over the summer it is hoped to make recordings of at least a dozen more instruments. They will generally feature the resident organist playing a short piece or improvisation that captures the character of the instrument and the ambience of the building.

Smith, who plays percussion at Holy Trinity Church and practises the organ there, plans to have the project complete by our centenary. The first disc should be available by late summer and cassettes will be sold to members to raise funds for centenary celebrations.

President Robert Cockroft says: "The town has lost some fine instruments over the years. Often the only reminder is a picture and specification,sometimes not even that."

"This project, enabled by Simon's skill and enthusiasm, will help to keep history alive, to illustrate changing styles in organ building and to provide an invaluable resource for the future."