CAMPAIGNERS have raised more than £350,000 to restore one of Paisley Abbey's star attractions.

The venue's 135-year-old organ is considered to be one of the finest in the UK but needs a full refurbishment.

Over the last two years, the Paisley Abbey Organ Restoration Project has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to safeguard it for future generations.

The project is now just £70,000 short of its funding target of £420,000.

The restoration work, which is due to start in January, will be carried out by Harrison and Harrison of Durham, which restored the organs at Edinburgh's Usher Hall and Glasgow Cathedral.

George McPhee, director of music at Paisley Abbey for 45 years, said: "I look forward to the much needed restoration when the full glories of the instrument will again be there for all to hear."

Renfrewshire Provost Celia Lawson added: "The organ at Paisley Abbey is of huge importance to the cultural heritage of Renfrewshire and Scotland.

"It would be incredibly sad to let such a beautiful and historic instrument go on deteriorating to the point where it can no longer be used.

"This is a remarkable musical instrument appreciated not only by experts all over the world but also by anyone who has attended a concert or recital in the Abbey.

"I would urge people to make a donation, big or small, to the restoration project so that this magnificent organ can be enjoyed by future generations."

French musician Aristide Cavaille-Coll first built a two-manual and pedal instrument in the nave of the Abbey in 1873. But after years of constant use, the pipe work, wind system, flutes and reeds deteriorated to such an extent that a major renovation is needed to save it.

During the 19th century, the congregation was one of the first to reintroduce choral singing into Church of Scotland services.