Cornwall organ builder Lance Foy has been honoured for his services to church music in a career spanning more than 50 years.

Each year, the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) council recognises individuals who have made remarkable contributions to church music.

Since the age of 13, Mr Foy has played the organ for church services and held various organist and choirmaster roles across the county.

He was awarded honorary membership by Baroness Hayman of Ullock, chair of the RSCM council, at St Albans Cathedral on Saturday, October 19.

Mr Foy said: "What a happy surprise to collect this award, not something I thought would happen when I started out all those years ago.

"It’s always nice to have your work recognised.

"St Albans Cathedral was very impressive, and it was a lovely service."

His company, Lance Foy Organs, based in Perranwell, between Falmouth and Truro, builds, restores, and maintains pipe organs throughout the south west and beyond.