A SIXTEENTH century chest containing evidence of a dispute between a notorious landlord and his long-suffering tenants has inspired a series of concerts.

For centuries, the Weardale Chest was guarded in a farmhouse near Westgate in the Durham Dales, and was only opened when four designated key holders came together.

Inside were original documents dating from 1579 to 1660 relating to a hard fought legal battle between Sir Arthur Hesilrige and his Weardale tenants.

The documents relate to the Forest of Weardale and Stanhope Park and also include 16th century copies of court paperwork dating back to the 14th century.

In 1953 the chest was gifted to Durham University and the legal documents were moved to the special collection in Palace Green Library.

And now, thanks to two talented County Durham composers, the stories and characters within these documents will be brought to life. Duncan Brown, from Spennymoor, and Paul Traves, from Frosterley, are working on a collection of six original songs inspired by and named after the historic Weardale Chest.

Weardale Community Choir will perform the first song at its summer concert in St John’s Chapel next month.

The song, by Mr Brown, sets the scene for what is to come, describing the beautiful landscape and wildlife of the Dale, along with the heritage which helped to shape it.

The final verse begins with the lines: “We are their heirs, this is our Weardale Chest. In this modest paradise, this unbroken wilderness. An errant world made more clear, by the ageless harmony that is here.”

Later songs will focus on the stories and historical figures found within the chest’s documents, and will be performed by the choir over the next few years.

Mr Brown said: “Our intention is to take a couple of stories from the chest and develop them into songs. There is one man who especially interests me. He has a wonderful nickname, Ralph the Crafty. He was a 13th century master forester and was very unpopular. He was known for being a bit devious.”

The story of Sir Arthur Hesilrige is also likely to feature. A supporter of Oliver Cromwell, Hesilrige bought the manor of Wolsingham during the Civil War. The unpopular landowner, who went on to be executed when the monarchy was restored, tried to evict his tenant farmers but after a seven year struggle the underdogs won the case, securing their tenancies and customary rights.

Choir member Willie Giles said: "It's a fascinating story. I am a newcomer to the Dale and I recognise the people here have been through some tough times over the centuries.

“The fact they overcame these problems is worth commemorating, and this great song by Duncan does just that.”

The Weardale Chest concert takes place at St John’s Chapel Town Hall on Saturday, July 1, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7 on the door including refreshments.