Liverpool Cathedral is marking 100 years since the dedication of its Grand Organ with an exhibition and centenary events that have drawn family connections stretching back more than a century.

The Grand Organ, the largest pipe organ in the UK, was dedicated in 1926 and has remained at the centre of worship and music at the cathedral ever since. A month of celebrations documenting the instrument's history and legacy continues, with an exhibition remaining open in a reduced format until the end of the month.

Family Connection to the Cathedral

John Douglas-Goss-Custard, 84, from Devon, is visiting the cathedral as part of the centenary celebrations. He is the grandson of Harry Goss-Custard, who served as Liverpool Cathedral's organist from 1917 to 1955 and helped design the Grand Organ.

Douglas-Goss-Custard's family ties to the cathedral run deep. He recalled watching the building take shape during visits to his grandfather's home across the road during the 1950s, when the cathedral was about three-quarters built.

Some of his fondest memories are of sitting inside the cathedral watching his grandfather perform. "I remember going in to watch him play and being amazed at the amount of keyboards he played at the same time and all the pedals, with his feet whizzing at lightning speed," he said.

His grandfather's dedication to music extended beyond the organ loft. "At home in his armchair he would tap his fingers to keep them fit."

A Different Musical Path

Despite growing up around one of the country's most celebrated instruments, Douglas-Goss-Custard did not follow his grandfather's path. "I didn't learn the organ," he said. "I learnt the bagpipes instead." He took up the instrument at the age of 65 and played with a band until recently.

Many of his grandchildren have also embraced music, playing instruments including guitars, drums and flutes.

Three Organists Over a Century

Prof Ian Tracey, who was appointed as Britain's youngest cathedral organist in 1980, is preparing to retire after 46 years of service. He will oversee a centenary recital and will meet Douglas-Goss-Custard again during the celebrations.

Prof Tracey said he was "delighted" the centenary celebrations were documenting the history of the "iconic instrument" and the three organists, including Noel Rawsthorn, "who have presided for over a century".

Celebrating the Organ's History

Liverpool Cathedral launched Organ October to mark 100 years since the dedication of the Grand Organ. The programme has included a free exhibition, talks and family activities celebrating the instrument and the people who have shaped its history.

The exhibition also recognises Prof Tracey's 46 years of service at the cathedral and continues in a reduced format until the end of the month.