From workplace disputes and new technology to community projects, local campaigns and unforgettable moments on the high street, these photographs capture the people, places and stories that shaped the Black Country and Staffordshire in 1990.
It was a year of change and debate, with residents taking to the streets over the Poll Tax, businesses investing for the future, and communities coming together to raise money, celebrate achievements and protect the things that mattered to them.
From Walsall and Wolverhampton to Cannock, Dudley and beyond, this collection offers a fascinating snapshot of everyday life - the familiar faces, local landmarks and events that many will remember.
Take a look through the gallery and see which memories come flooding back. Do you recognise anyone or have your own memories of these places and events? Share them in the comments.
Take a trip back to Brierley Hill in the 1980s and explore our nostalgic gallery here.
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1. The march against the Poll Tax that passed through Wolverhampton
Anti-Poll Tax demonstrators are pictured leaving Queen Square in Wolverhampton in September 1990 as they continued their march from Liverpool to London. The protesters headed towards Bilston before travelling on to Coseley, Dudley and West Bromwich, hoping to draw attention to growing opposition to the controversial Community Charge. The march brought campaigners from across the region together, with many local people joining or supporting the protest as it passed through the Black Country. Do you remember seeing the march make its way through Wolverhampton or your town? | Express & Star archive
2. The day a young fan met Black Country legends Slade
Six-year-old Kelly Dale is pictured meeting Black Country rock legends Slade at Walsall Town Hall in September 1990. Jimmy Lea, Dave Hill and Noddy Holder are all pictured, with Noddy taking time to sign an autograph for his young fan. The photograph captures a special moment with one of the region's most successful and best-loved bands, whose roots in the Black Country made them local heroes as well as chart stars. Do you remember seeing Slade perform or meeting the band? | Express & Star archive
3. When Sam Allardyce was on the Albion coaching staff
Sam Allardyce is pictured with Gary Strodder during his time on the coaching staff at West Bromwich Albion in 1990. Long before becoming one of English football’s best-known managers, Allardyce was helping to develop players at The Hawthorns during a challenging period for the club. The photograph captures an early chapter in the career of a man who would go on to manage clubs across the Premier League. Do you remember Sam Allardyce’s time at Albion? | Express & Star archive
4. When Flying Scotsman met the locomotive that replaced it
Flying Scotsman is pictured alongside one of the Deltic diesel locomotives at Kidderminster in October 1990, ahead of the Severn Valley Railway's autumn steam and diesel gala. The famous rivals had both worked the London to Edinburgh route during the 1960s, with the arrival of the Deltics signalling the end of Flying Scotsman's frontline service. The rare reunion attracted railway enthusiasts from far and wide, with large crowds turning out to see two icons of Britain's railways side by side. Do you remember visiting the Severn Valley Railway to see Flying Scotsman in 1990? | Express & Star archive