ONE hundred years of history linking a multinational company and a village school have been brought together in a time capsule buried for posterity.

Pupils at Heighington CE Primary School researched and wrote a book for the capsule, being buried to mark 3M's centenary.

Their work covered the history of 3M and the 3M Aycliffe site, as well as Heighington village and their school.

The capsule has now been placed under a six-tonne stone plinth on land next to the 3M Aycliffe site, where trees are also to be planted to create a centenary field.

The school's top two classes were involved in the project, consisting of 49 children.

Teacher Michelle Goundry said: "They really enjoyed the idea that their work was fulfilling a purpose for the future and they were amazed at what they discovered along the way."

Included in the time capsule were three new products from 3M Aycliffe, plus copies of the company's magazines and newspapers, including The Northern Echo.

The 3M Aycliffe site has been operating since 1966, manufacturing respiratory protection products and environmental protection materials.

Site manager Phil Wild, who buried the capsule with the help of pupils, said: "3M is very proud of its history of innovation and with its close links with the local community.

"We wanted the time capsule to reflect that and we were delighted that the children showed such enthusiasm to help."