IT WAS a case of 'X didn't mark the spot' for an American couple who returned to Warrington to dig for hidden treasure. Larry and Vicki Ahlemann, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, visited their former home in Lymm for the first time in more than 40 years.

They lived in the village during the 1950s when their parents were stationed at RAF Burtonwood.

Larry, then aged 12, and a gang of five friends buried a special time capsule in the grounds of Brookfield House, High Lane, in 1955.

Now Larry and Vicki have returned to rediscover their fond memories of the village - but can't remember exactly where the tin was buried.

"Six of us secretly buried the cookie tin in about October 1955. We put all sorts in from that time such as newspapers and coins," said Larry.

"I can remember putting a Matchbox VW car in the tin. Everyone was driving them at the time."

Although he had a rough idea where the 'capsule' was buried, several holes and litres of sweat later, it was proving hard to find.

The pair, who married after meeting at a Burtonwood reunion in the States last year, could hardly recognise the town.

Added Vicki: "It could be anywhere! However we are thinking about moving back to Warrington so we would have plenty of time to find it then."

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