Methodists seek over £3,000 to restore ‘Wesley’ tome

The book, which is kept at the popular tourist attraction of Epworth’s Old Rectory was expected to cost £1,000 to restore.

But the original estimate has rocketed to £6,600 because of its poor condition.

So far well-wishers have given £300 and the curator of the rectory, the Rev Claire Potter, has obtained another £3,000 grant.

The Old Rectory is known world-wide as the boyhood home of John and Charles Wesley, who founded the movement that went on to become the Methodist Church. And the book is seen as significant as it carries the signatures of Charles, his wife Sarah and two of their children – also called Charles and Sarah.

“Its title is Contemplations On The History Of The New Testament and we don’t know if it was donated or has been here all the time,” said Rev Potter, who hopes to raise more money from grants.

In the meantime people are asked to make donations - and those who do will have their name recorded in a special book with a page in the tome dedicated to them.

Rev Potter said: “The cost of repair is way beyond the coffers of the Old Rectory. It has survived for nearly 350 years and we are appealing to people to help it survive for another 350 years.”

People can make a donation in person at the Old Rectory or by post. Cheques should be made payable to Epworth Old Rectory and sent to Epworth Old Rectory, I Rectory Street, Epworth DN9 1HX. Names and addresses should be included.