AN appeal is being made for £900 towards the cost of recording a compact disc to celebrate the first visit of Methodism founder John Wesley to a North-East dale.

The historic recording, which involved 300 musicians and singers, was made last weekend at High House Chapel, Ireshopeburn, in Weardale, County Durham, to celebrate Wesley's journey there on horseback 250 years ago.

David Heatherington, secretary of the Weardale Museum, who helped to organise the recording, said there had been a magnificent response from businesses and indviduals in the dale in helping towards the £3,600 cost of making the CD, but another £900 was still needed.

The CD and a tape version of the musical tribute, which took 14 hours over two days to record, will go on sale at outlets in Weardale, including the Weardale Museum, in May to coincide with Wesley's first visit there on May 26, 1752.

People can order the CD at £10, or tape at £6, now from Mr Heatherington on (01388) 517433 or email dtheatheringtonatargonet.co.u