A SMALL band of loyal worshippers are working against the clock to fund roof repairs to their 132-year-old chapel.

The 20 members of the congregation at Tudhoe Methodist Church, near Spennymoor, need to raise £26,000 to pay for new tiles and joists.

Structural engineers have identified faults in the roof supports and say that work cannot be delayed if the building is to be saved.

Since it opened in 1870, the chapel has played a vital role in the tragedies and triumphs of the former pit community.

It was planned and built by miners who wanted a place to worship but soon found it a haven to share their sorrow when 40 men and boys were killed in an explosion at Tudhoe Colliery on April 18, 1882.

The building was originally heated by steam from the pit.

In 1894, the flourishing Victorian congregation collected £175 for a new organ. Later worshippers added memorials to village men killed in mine accidents and war.

Today's chapel supporters have collected £6,500, including £1,000 from Spennymoor Town Council, since the fundraising campaign started in January 2001. The Spennymoor and Ferryhill Methodist circuit has pledged £5,000.

Now chapel treasurer Janet Richardson is asking the council for further help because the repairs need to be started quickly.

She said: "Although we now have only 20 church members, the people of Tudhoe have been especially supportive to our fundraising efforts and they have reminded us that the chapel is still at the heart of the community.

"Indeed, their support has made us more determined to raise as much as we can to retain their chapel."

Council leader Councillor Bill Waters said: "This is an important part of the area's heritage and we must do what we can to safeguard its future.

"It is important in terms of history and for the people who use it. Churches and chapels are closing and more must be maintained for the benefit of the whole community."