John Riley has celebrated 40 years as the organist for StMatthew’s Church, North Quay, Douglas.

Father Duncan Whitworth presented him with gifts from the congregation together with a two-night stay for John and his wife Audrey at The Park Hotel in Ramsey. Mr Riley is only the third organist at St Matthew’s over the past 100 years - and he says he has not finished yet.

He has led and organised the Promenade Summer Concerts for many years, and has led the Manx Festival Chorus since 1969.

The former St Thomas’ headmaster was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours for his fundraising concerts which have raised more than £250,000 for charities in the island and Nepal. Mr Riley will receive the award at a ceremony at Government House in May.