THE life of the man who founded the Methodist Church is to be celebrated during a fiery evening of drama and song in Hartford.

Rehearsals are well underway for Hartford Methodist Church's production of Child of Fire, which tells the story of John Wesley the evangelist who in the face of immense opposition established the church.

The musical drama, produced by Neil Thompson, will take place at 7.30 on Saturday, September 20 and is intended to celebrate 300 years since John's birth.

Child of Fire starts at the end of John's life, he sits down to a meal with Mrs Jones and her son William recants the story of his childhood and adult life including his dramatic rescue from the fire which destroyed Epworth Rectory in 1709 and earned him the title - 'Child of Fire'

Barbara Briggs is helping to organise the event. She said: "As John reflects on his life and shares his life story, our performance flashes back to key moments in his life, the highlights but also the difficult times and the struggles he faced.

"John had a fire burning within him, burning with the good news of Jesus Christ. We would like to share a little of that hope, vision and fire."

The evening will involve both musical and dramatic performances, which will take place in the Hartford Methodist Church in Beach Road.

Tickets are priced at £4 with all proceeds going towards improved facilities for the disabled at the church.

For more information or to reserve tickets call 01606 75507.

scorrigan@guardiangrp.co.uk