Heritage Open Days come to town

Some of the region's best historical gems will throw open their doors to the public from tomorrow as part of the annual Heritage Open Days series.

Churches, theatres, a brewery and even the Express & Star printing presses will come under the spotlight as part of the annual series of free events.

Organised by English Heritage, the days run until Sunday and are the region's biggest celebration of architecture, history and culture.

Some attractions are booked up, but at others people will be able to just turn up for a guided tour.

Dr Simon Thurley, chief executive, said: "Heritage Open Days is about people and places. It celebrates community and reflects the importance of the built environment in our lives and to our quality of life.

"It is organised by local people who dedicate their spare time to opening properties and staging activities .

"It is their knowledge and enthusiasm that makes Heritage Open Days happen."

In Wolverhampton, around 19 separate attractions have signed up to take part. The Express & Star's head office, in Queen Street, is among them.

Other highlights include tours of the 135-year-old Banks's Brewery, while department store Beatties will give people an exclusive glimpse of its new heritage centre.

Bilston Craft Gallery, Darlington Street Methodist Church and the Light House cinema will also feature.

One of Walsall's most historic foundries is running guided tours around its 120-year-old site. Chamberlin & Hill Castings Ltd, in Chuckery Road, is holding tours every 20 minutes on Saturday from 10am to 1pm.

Stafford's Shire Hall Gallery is taking part for the first time this year, with a free event about crime and punishment.

In Worcestershire, Churchill Gorge, near Kidderminster, will show visitors how the country's last surviving water-powered plating forge works.

And Sandwell's Oak House Museum, in West Bromwich, will open up its animal room on Sunday.