Schoolchildren plant time capsule in hotel attraction

Children from St. John’s Primary School in Dodworth, Barnsley, were invited to take part in the project by the neighbouring Holiday Inn, which has developed a £150,000 “secret garden” opened last Friday.

Everyday items such as newspaper clippings, coins and shopping receipts as well as recent Royal wedding memorabilia, family photographs and personal letters were placed inside the capsule.

It was buried at the entrance to the garden and marked with a plaque with a date for opening, in 2036 – 25 years from now.

A hotel spokesman said: “The Secret Garden project, which has taken three months to complete, forms part of a plan of ongoing investment by the hotel to further enhance its facilities.

“The garden, designed by Sheffield-based landscape architects, Dragonfly Lanscapes, features flowerbeds, a grand gazebo, walkways and seating and is based on Chinese gardens that promote tranquility.”

Ian Goddard, headteacher at the school, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to leave their mark for future generations of their local community.”