The rich history of this well-known Methodist church and the inner London area of Marylebone in which it is based are recalled, along with a high tradition of worship and music over two centuries, the excitement of building a magnificent new chapel, and the church's constantly developing efforts to support its inner-city constituency.

Throughout its 200 year history, Hinde Street Church in London has been one of Britain's best-known Methodist churches, with a long tradition of great preaching and local community service. In the early years crowds flocked there to hear the foremost orators of the day. And thousands of children in the church's Sunday School were taught reading and writing skills before universal education was introduced.

Alan Brooks' book tells of episodes of tragic internal strife, of personal sacrifice and of the devastation of war. But he also recalls a high tradition of public worship and music maintained over two centuries, the excitement of building a magnificent new chapel, and the church's constantly developing efforts to support its inner-city constituency. Fascinating details of Hinde Street's connections with many of Methodism's great leaders over two centuries are revealed, including its long-term relationship with Donald Soper and with the West London Mission whose ambitious social welfare outreach continues to this day.

Alan Brooks has been a member at Hinde Street church for over 40 years and has filled various roles, including chairing the Church Property Committee. He had a career in Local Government with three London Councils and was a qualified Town Planner, though for most of that time he specialized in research. He is very grateful to Gillian, Rachel and Stephen for allowing him to retire early so that he could write the present book.