VICAR'S son Anthony Gray played a big part in the musical life of St Margaret's Church, Ilkley, until he moved to Cambridge University as an organ scholar two years ago.

So it's no surprise that tomorrow (6.30pm at the church), as Director of the University’s 16-strong Robinson Consort Choir, he will proudly introduce to his many friends in the Wharfedale area the group he and his predecessor, David Warren, founded last January.

Adding more spice to his weekend visit to Wharfedale is the chance to link up with many of his former Ilkley Grammar School pupils as their choir will be sharing in the concert.

"It should be a memorable occasion for everyone, and hopefully we'll raise a lot of money for charity with our four appearances," said 20-year-old Anthony, who besides being a highly-rated organist, keen pianist and chorister is also involved with musical theatre in and around Cambridge.

No doubt remembering his time as a choir boy at Blackburn Cathedral a decade ago when his father was Bishop’s Chaplain, he added: "I’m also pleased that St Margaret’s Junior Choirs will also join with us tomorrow and at Sunday Mass. Our university choir are set for an unforgettable weekend."

Anthony treasures many happy memories of life in Ilkley. He arrived with his family 10 years ago and those in the packed congregation at his father's induction service will surely never forget watching the then Bishop of Bradford, the Rt Rev David James, hand his mitre to young Anthony to wear. With his younger sister Rebecca alongside him, the pair careered down the aisle relishing being propelled into such unexpected prominence.

Now he recalls belonging to many church groups until going to university, notably participating in the music side of church life - choirs, playing the organ at the occasional service, even giving an organ recital sometimes. "Yes, I know how the youngsters will feel this weekend singing along with us," he added.

Besides tomorrow’s concert the busy weekend for the visitors includes singing at a CTI event at Ilkley Christchurch on Saturday (2pm), presenting a Christmas Extravaganza at St Margaret’s at Horsforth (7.30pm) the same evening and ending the tour with Sung Mass at Ilkley St Margaret’s on Sunday (10.45am).