A TINY dales community, steeped in the history of Methodism, has been paying a musical tribute to the founder of the religion, John Wesley.

This year sees the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the first visit by Wesley to Upper Weardale, in County Durham - a journey he made alone across the moors and fells - and on horseback.

At the weekend, nearly 300 of his modern-day followers made the same journey, this time by car and coach, to record a compact disc in his memory, at High House Chapel, Ireshopeburn.

Wesley first visited the village in May 1752, and it was that visit which inspired poor lead miners and their families to build the chapel, which was completed in 1760. In all, Wesley made 13 visits to Weardale, often in atrocious weather conditions.

More than 130 musicians and singers from the Newcastle Chorus, Gateshead's Gibside Singers and Stanhope Silver Band took part in the making of the CD - Wesley's Weardale - which took 14 hours over two days.

They were joined by a volunteer congregation from all parts of the North-East for the final recording at High House Chapel of hymns written by Wesley's brother, Charles.

"It has been a marathon effort by any standards," said Stanhope band conductor Steve Robson. "It's a bit like putting a musical jigsaw together, but it's really got the adrenaline going.

"What's been remarkable has been the response we have had from people outside the dale.

"We are hoping that the CD will be something for posterity, putting Weardale's very strong links with Methodism firmly on the map."

Among the congregation were Norah Brown, Marjorie Nicholson and Ann Leyburn, lifelong Methodists from Stanley Crook and Roddymoor, near Bishop Auckland - all making their first visit to High House Chapel.

"We felt it was very important to be a part of such an historic milestone as this," said Miss Leyburn.

"The recording of music so closely linked to John Wesley has captured all our imaginations. The anniversary is also a time for celebration.

"We are proud to have taken part."