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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29. 1st Penn Scout group, 1972
The Scouts were ready for anything when the new headquarters of the 1st Penn Scout Group was opened during a power cut in February 1972. Scout leader Chris Collier and his son Andrew kept things running with a battery of hurricane lamps, proving that a little ingenuity could go a long way. Do you remember power cuts, hurricane lamps and the ways people made do when the lights went out? | Express & Star archive
30. Peter Handley, Knighton, Staffordshire, 1972
A glimpse of a traditional craft at Knighton smithy in Staffordshire in 1972, as Peter Handley senior goes about his work. The village blacksmith was once a familiar figure in many communities, keeping horses shod and working with iron by hand. Do you remember old village smithies, or the sights and sounds of these traditional workplaces? | Express & Star archive
31. Codsall Wood WI, 1972
A snapshot of community life and local campaigning in 1972 as members of Codsall Wood Women’s Institute took part in an M54 demonstration. The proposed motorway sparked strong feelings among residents, with many people making their voices heard. Do you remember the M54 campaign, or the community groups that brought people together to stand up for local causes? | Express & Star archive