'Snapshot' capsule buried inside market hall

Mark Jones, from construction firm Wates and Derby City Council leader, Nadine Peatfield, joined together to bury the capsule

A "snapshot of the 21st century" has been sealed inside the walls of a historical city centre market hall.

Derby City Council placed a time capsule inside Derby Market Hall, which has been closed for three years for a £35m revamp.

The capsule sits alongside two others - dating from 1864 and 1938 - which were uncovered during the refurbishment of the Grade-II listed site, which is due to re-open next spring.

Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, said: "This is an exciting moment in the Market Hall project as we seal a snapshot of 21st Century life for generations to come."

The new capsule is being placed alongside two others, dating from 1864 and 1938

The capsule was provided by Cadent Gas and is packed with a diverse range of items, contributed by businesses across the city, that "reflect life in Derby in 2024".

This includes a 3D printed submarine from Rolls-Royce, the latest food and drinks guide from Marketing Derby, and a model Toyota Corolla.

A selection of photos showcasing "Derby’s diverse communities and vibrant events" were added, including 2024’s Derby Pride, the 2023 Lantern Parade and Caribbean Carnival.

"It’s a strange concept, not knowing when these items will be uncovered," added Ms Peatfield.

"I hope that whenever this capsule is opened, people will get a sense of what life was like in Derby in 2024 and see it as a vibrant, diverse and thriving city."

Tim Wates, chairman of construction firm Wates, which is managing the refurbishment, said: "It was an honour to include a piece of Wates in the time capsule.

"Time will tell if the capsule is recovered, but it is a legacy we are proud to be involved in."