Larchwood Care

Some of the oldest and youngest residents of Downham Market have helped ensure future generations will know the history of the town, after burying a time capsule together.

Diamond House Care Home and Hill Crest Primary School have buried a time capsule in the care home’s grounds during a ceremony overseen by the town’s mayor, Cllr John Doyle.

The aim is to preserve items which reflect the lives and experiences of Diamond House’s residents, with laminated sheets and photos detailing facts and stories from throughout their lives. As many of the residents were the same age as the Hill Crest schoolchildren during World War Two, there are also a number of stories about growing up during the conflict.

The schoolchildren from Hill Crest Primary School have collected information and items which capture a snapshot of life in 2024, including things like who the prime minister is, copies of coins and bank notes, what is in the news, as well as documents which detail their own lives.

Downham Market Mayor, Cllr John Doyle, made a contribution on behalf of the community, with a pamphlet on the history of the town being securely locked away in the watertight container.

Allison Webster, Diamond House activities coordinator, spearheaded the initiative. She said: "This time capsule is more than just a collection of items. It's a bridge between multiple generations. Not just our residents, who have witnessed so much change, and the youngsters of Hill Crest Primary School, who themselves have lived through challenging times – but generations to come, who will be able to learn more about the lives of every day people.

“We’re delighted that Hill Crest and the Mayor were able to support this initiative. We’ve collected a snapshot of the lives of people alive today in 2024, and it’s been amazing to learn so much more about our residents and their experiences before joining us at Diamond House.”

Diamond House resident, Audrey Elliott, aged 93, said: "One vivid memory that I've shared for the time capsule is the moment when the war ended. I was with my family in our front room, gathered around an old radio. Two army men stood were outside and we turned the radio all the way up so we could hear the announcement too. The feeling was indescribable, we were so relieved that the war was finally over. The street parties to celebrate were so much fun with everyone chipping in what they could to make sure everyone could get involved, even though food was still scarce and rationing was still in force. It's moments like these that I hope will give future generations a glimpse into our past and the resilience of our community."

One Hill Crest Primary School pupil said: "It's really cool to think that in many years someone will dig this up and learn about us and our town. I put in a drawing of my family and some facts about my favourite video game!"

Mayor Councillor John Doyle, who contributed a pamphlet detailing the rich history of Downham Market, stressed the significance of such initiatives. "These capsules serve as a window to our times, a way for future generations to understand who we were and the world we lived in. It's heartwarming to see our community come together for such a cause."

The event culminated in a touching moment as both young and old placed their contributions into the capsule, symbolising the passing down of stories and memories. As the capsule was lowered into the ground, it served as a powerful reminder of the enduring connections that bind us all.

The capsule, now safely nestled in the grounds of Diamond House Care Home, awaits the future, holding within it the collective memories of a community committed to preserving its legacy for generations to come.

ENDS

NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF LARCHWOOD CARE

CONTACT: Joss Havakin on 01325 363436

Notes to editors:

Larchwood Care has an extensive range of care homes, with an excellent reputation, in England and Scotland.

All of the facilities are set up to support a comfortable lifestyle while making the most of a skilled care team with an approach that is homely and charming, while also being modern and efficient.

Larchwood Care Homes is managed by Healthcare Management Solutions, one of the leading providers of care in the UK.

https://www.larchwoodcare.co.uk/