SCHOOLCHILDREN have created time capsules which have been buried at the site of the A51 improvement works in Chester.

Youngsters from both Tarvin and Barrow primary schools have worked hard putting together letters, drawings and photos for their time capsules.

A total of 10 pupils from the two schools were invited to the site, with their teachers, for a special ceremony.

Contractor, Balfour Beatty arranged for the time capsules to be buried by the children alongside a reinstated milestone, originally dated 1898.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, councillor Karen Shore said: "I’m delighted local children have been able to get involved in this project by capturing a moment in time and saving it for future generations.

"Both schools worked really hard on their time capsule. I’m sure for many years to come the children will pass the milestone on the A51 and remember how they were involved in this exciting project."

Nick Fox, project manager for Balfour Beatty, added: "The children really enjoyed seeing the construction site in action, learning about the importance of safety and burying the time capsules they have worked so hard on.

"It was a pleasure to show them the project and they were very excited about the time capsule burial and the thought that future generations could one day look at all their wonderful work."

The major junction and roundabout improvements scheme opens later this summer and includes additional lanes at the Stamford Bridge traffic lights, the widening of the existing bridge over the River Gowy, as well as additional signage and carriageway markings at Tarvin roundabout to encourage the use of both lanes heading southbound.

Other improvements include changes to the road layout, widening, lane markings and better signage along the length of the route, with a new controlled crossing near Hare Lane and Littleton Lane.

New crossing points and improved footpaths for pedestrians, bus users and cyclists are also part of the scheme in a bid to reduce delays, congestion and promote greener transport, improving air quality.