HUNDREDS of women worshippers from Methodist churches gathered for a major biennial event in the North-East yesterday.
Durham Cathedral provided the setting for the fourth special regional service for the Women's Network of the Methodist Church.
It attracted a 440-strong congregation from areas including west Cumbria and the Shetland Isles.
The two-hour service included the preaching of the Reverend Alison Wilkinson, of Carrville Methodist Church, near Durham. The Reverend Graham Carter, chairman of the Methodist Darlington district, officiated in the Sacrament.
During the afternoon, guided tours were staged round the cathedral, followed by tea at nearby Elvet Methodist Church.
Area representative Christine Wilson said it had been a hectic but enjoyable day for all involved organising the event.
"We have had a fantastic day and I'm sure, judging by the smiles on people's faces, that everyone has gone home happy," she said.
"This has previously been held in Penrith, Newcastle and Dunblane, and so it was our turn this year."
North-East Methodists face a long journey to the next Women's Network special service - in the Shetland Isles in 2007.
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