TAVISTOCK?s church organist and choir master, Pearce Richards, has been recognised for his long service by the Queen in this year?s New Year?s Honours list.

Mr Richards, who has been organist at St Eustachius since 1965, has been awarded the MBE.

Mr Richards said: ?I?m quite amazed ? at first I thought someone was playing a trick on me.

?It hasn?t really sunk in yet ? it?s something you can?t quite believe would happen to you.?

Mr Richards, who was educated at Tavistock Grammar School, met his wife in the church choir and was organist at Whitchurch for eight years, before coming to Tavistock.

?My life has been centred around the church ever since I can remember,? he said.

He was a long-serving secretary for the Devon area branch of the Royal School of Church Music, until ill-health forced him to retire from the post.

He has also taught the piano and organ to children for many years.

?I?ve taught right through my life ? the number of pupils around Tavistock are legion almost,? he said.

Preb John Rawlings, the vicar of Tavistock, said Mr Richards had done a great deal for music in the area for more than 40 years.

Mr Rawlings said: ?He has been such a loyal and faithful organist and has been responsible for teaching lots of young people to enjoy music and continue enjoying it into their adult life.

?He is such a gentle and unassuming man and from my point of view, he is one of the most sympathetic organists I have ever worked with ? whether it?s a funeral or a grand service or a christening, he always knows exactly what is required.?