AFTER laying untouched for more than 160 years, the floor at Witney’s Holy Trinity Church revealed hidden gems when it was lifted in a refurbishment.

Churchgoers found 19th century coins and prayer books alongside modern toys that had slipped through holes.

Now after replacing the floor they have buried a time capsule with items representing 2014, including Oxford Mail sister paper the Witney Gazette.

Juliet Curry, who attends the Woodgreen church and helped compile the capsule’s contents: “We’re replacing all the floor because it’s rotten and after we found all these things we thought we should bury something on purpose.

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“We have some interesting things that represent the year and will some day be found in the future.

“It's nice to think of someone finding this box by sheer chance when the next floor gets replaced and enjoying it.”

The church was built in 1848 but its floor had never been replaced until this week as part of £80,000 repair work, to also replace heating and lighting. Items under the floorboards included two shillings and a halfpenny, old prayer books, a copper candle snuffer, gloves, pencils, a comb and toys including animals and cars.

Many are believed to have slipped through cracks and holes by a radiator next to a wall.

A 2014 capsule has now been placed below the floor. It contains a letter written on acid-free paper to stop the print from leaking; a copy of the Witney Gazette from October 1 with stories like Wood Green School’s plan to become an academy.

There is also a leopard hairband, cufflinks, a toy Mini and Ferrari, First World War remembrance memorabilia, a parish magazine, church newsletter and church service sheet.

Mrs Curry, married to Witney Town Council member Roger Curry, said: “It’s very 2014 with fashionable and fun things.

“I tried to think of things that are very much of today rather than something that might be around still in 50 years’ or so time, such as the leopard hair band, which could look very odd in the future.

“When they look at the Witney Gazette and see what's happening in the town they will be thrilled to bits.”

The Rev Neil Traynor, vicar of the church, said: “It gives us a sense of history by collecting things from the past and preserving them for the future.”

 

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