One to remember – final carol service at world's oldest Methodist chapel

A WORLD renowned upper dale chapel hosted coffee and carols for the final time.
A bumper turnout at Newbiggin Methodist Chapel joined in a dozen carols with cups of tea.
Worshippers came from as far as Hexham to soak up the festive atmosphere with a mince pie and a brew.
Superintendent minister Revd Beverley Hollings led the service with Christmas messages, prayers and a light-hearted story about modern day consumerism.
She reserved a special thanks to those who served refreshments adding she would remember the day for a long time.
Services began at the chapel in 1760 and Methodism founder John Wesley twice preached from its pulpit in the 18th century. It is believed to be the oldest of its kind still in use worldwide but, sadly, it will not hold that accolade for much longer. A dwindling congregation and a sparse event roster have taken their toll, meaning the chapel will hold its final service on Wesley Day – Wednesday, May 24.
Joyce Wood, Brenda Hunter and Ann Bates have made the Christmas journey up the dale for the last 22 years.
“It’s definitely a special and significant place,” said Mrs Hunter.  “It’s a big family event – we all go to the Methodist Church in Barnard Castle.”
Church steward June Luckhurst, from Ingleton, made sure the kitchen ran smoothly for the fourth decade running.
She added: “I’d rate this one as first class – one of the best we have ever had.
“We usually have a singer – each service we try to have a little bit of entertainment in between the hymns and carols. Everyone chooses their own carol – my choice was ‘Cradled in a Manger, Meanly’.”
Her daughter, Susan, has been “roped in” for the past five years.
“It was nice to see so many faces that would not normally make it here,” she added.
Former villager Bev Ward revealed how the chapel had played a significant role in her life.  “I used to come to Sunday school here,” she said. 
“I got married here 25 years ago and both my children were Christened here – it’s all very sad. My mother was a key holder so she was involved in helping look after it.
“Harvest festivals were always big events – Harold Beadle used to show local slides and then there was a sale of produce.”
Holwick’s Cynthia MacKenzie was another whose life had been shaped by the chapel. She said: “My mother used to walk from Holwick with the dog – the dog used to join in with the hymns.
“I don’t know how she dared walk across in the dark.”
Events are still lined up for the chapel next year with a worship on Sunday, February, 19 led by lay preachers.
Folk outfit Cream Tees are also due to perform in April ahead of the chapel’s closing service.