ORGANIST Les Snow has been named as the new chair of the Isle of Wight Organists' Association.

He was unanimously elected at the AGM on January 28, after being a member for more than 55 years.

Les is well known on the Island having taught for many years.

Scroll down to watch Les play Amazing Grace for County Press readers

Les has also been the organist at St Mary's Church in Brading for the past three-and-a-half years.

Prior to that he was organist and choirmaster at St Mildred's Church in Whippingham for an incredible 52 years, in  tandem with being organist and choirmaster at St James's Church in East Cowes for almost 49 years.

Les did a degree in music later in life than most students. Of course, his main subject was music, which included having weekly organ and singing  lessons.

During his three years at King Alfred's College, Winchester, he played Winchester Cathedral's organ on occasion. 

Over the years, he has also delighted in playing the organs in the cathedrals of Portsmouth, Chichester, Guildford, Salisbury, Derry in Ireland and Sydney in Australia.

Even when on holiday, Les doesn't stop playing. He has been on 34 cruises and usually ends up entertaining, or leading the guests' choir! 

Les has taught music at many Island schools and is also a keen golfer, having been a member of Osborne Golf Club for almost 33 years.

There are currently 39 full and associate members of the Isle of Wight Organists' Association (associate members do not need to be organists).

Anyone interested in finding out more should call Coral Bratherton on 07428 330540.