A recording is being planned to celebrate the first visit of the founder of the Methodist Church, John Wesley, to Weardale.

More than 130 musicians, including two choirs and a silver band, have been lined up to record the compact disc at High House Chapel, Ireshopeburn, Weardale.

But about 50 people are also needed to form a congregation to sing five hymns by Wesley's brother, Charles, for the recording next month.

The compact disc will celebrate the 250th anniversary of John Wesley's first visit to Weardale - a journey he made 13 times in all, often on horseback.

After his first visit, the villagers at Ireshopeburn started building the High House Chapel - no mean feat for a poor lead mining community.

Steve Robson, conductor of Stanhope Silver Band, who will lead the recording, said: "We aim to make this a historic moment for High House Chapel and the museum next door, which keeps records of Wesley's visits to the dale.

"It will be something for posterity, putting Weardale's strong links with Methodism firmly on the map."

Although some music for the compact disc will be recorded earlier by the Stanhope band, Gibside Singers and Newcastle Chorus, people are needed to join the congregation at High House Chapel on Saturday, February 16, between 3pm and 5pm, to sing the five hymns.

Anyone interested should contact Steve Robson on (01388) 537229.

The disc will go on sale at various outlets in Weardale.