The Black Country and Staffordshire looked very different in 1972. It was a year of miners' strikes, power cuts and change, but also one of community spirit, packed football grounds, nights at the theatre and simple pleasures. We've delved into our archives to bring you 31 fascinating snapshots of everyday life from more than 50 years ago.
From Slade bringing glam rock to Wolverhampton and Gordon Banks meeting young football fans in Cannock, to village traditions and community celebrations, these photographs capture the people, places and moments that helped shape the region.
Take a look through the gallery and see how many faces, places and moments you recognise - and if these photographs bring back memories, we'd love to hear your stories in the comments.
Want to go back another year? Explore our 1971 gallery here.
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13. Alrewas, 1972
A peaceful riverside scene from Alrewas in January 1972 as work was carried out to improve the Mill Stream area. The Alrewas Civic Society helped transform the riverside, creating a place for people to enjoy the view and spend time outdoors. Do you remember strolling along the river here, or the places in your village where people gathered and relaxed? | Express & Star archive
14. Slade, Wolverhampton Civic Hall, 1972
A taste of the glam rock era as Slade took to the stage at Wolverhampton Civic Hall in November 1972. With their unforgettable sound, colourful style and huge local following, the band were already becoming one of the biggest names in music. Were you among the crowd that night, or do you remember seeing Slade perform in the Black Country? | Express & Star archive
15. Gordon Banks, Cannock, 1972
A special meeting of footballing heroes and young fans in Cannock during the summer of 1972. World Cup-winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks is pictured with local youngsters Adrian Camp, Jamie Rowley and Richard Pursehouse in the garden of Jamie’s father John Rowley’s home in Hollies Road. Do you remember the excitement of meeting sporting heroes, or the footballers who inspired you as a child? | Express & Star archive
16. Royal Oak crossroads, Rudge Heath, 1972
A road safety campaign was gathering pace in November 1972 as plans were announced to install lights at the Royal Oak crossroads at Rudge Heath, one of the worst accident blackspots near Bridgnorth. The junction had seen a number of serious crashes, prompting calls for action. Do you remember this crossroads before the improvements were made, or the roads as they looked in the 1970s? | Express & Star archive