Hidden in a toilet paper roll: a message from a young girl written 35 years ago

When Charlotte England-Black started tearing into the attic of her new home in Nottingham, England, she wasn’t expecting a small cardboard relic to stop her in her tracks. Stuffed inside an empty toilet paper roll, buried among old overalls and a dusty cap, was a handwritten message from a girl named Emma, dated 1989.

The note, written in red marker, began with a cheerful introduction: “My name is Emma Waddingham. My birthday is February the 4th. I was born in 1982. I’m seven years old and nearly eight.” Emma ended with a simple wish for whoever might find it: “I hope you enjoy staying here. Lots of love, from a friend.”

What’s the story behind the toilet roll message?

Charlotte, now 30, was instantly intrigued and posted about the find in a local Facebook group, as explained by the BBC . Within ten minutes, neighbors had tagged Emma – now Emma Smith – who, remarkably, still lives in Nottingham.

Emma doesn’t remember writing the message or why she chose a toilet roll as her time capsule. “We’ll forever be wondering,” she said. But she recalls the house fondly, particularly her Tom and Jerry wallpaper.

Charlotte has decided the roll will stay in the attic. “In another 35 years,” she said, “someone else might find it.” Assuming, of course, they’re still using the attic... and still using toilet paper!

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