A look back at Wolverhampton and the Black Country in the 1980s, when high streets were busy, local shops were at the heart of everyday life, and familiar landmarks formed part of the rhythm of the week.
From bustling town centres and changing skylines to workplaces, communities and moments of local pride, these images capture a decade of transition, character and everyday stories.
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Did you see the 1970s gallery? Take a trip back in time here.
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45. Wolverhampton cattle market, 1986
A reminder of cautious times at Wolverhampton cattle market on 7 February 1986, when strict precautions against foot and mouth disease were in place as the market reopened for the first time since restrictions were imposed in November. The scene reflects the disruption felt across rural and farming communities, where biosecurity measures had become part of everyday trading life. | Express & Star archive
46. Q A Bureau, Dudley, 1986
Christine Shelton leads the linguistic service at QA Bureau in Dudley, a communications and translation company offering what was described at the time as a “one-stop” automated documentation and communication support service. In April 1986, the business had recently invested over £100,000 in new equipment to expand its work with industry, reflecting the growing role of technology in office and communications services during the mid-1980s. Do you remember when offices like this represented the cutting edge of business innovation? | Express & Star archive
47. Victoria Street, Wolverhampton, 1987
Victoria Street, Wolverhampton in February 1987, where the empty premises of K Shoes reflect a changing high street, with whitewashed windows and “to let” signs marking a pause in its retail life. It’s a scene that feels familiar even today, as many town centres continue to see well-known names come and go and vacant shopfronts appear between longer-standing businesses. Do you remember when this first started to become a regular sight in your local town? | Express & Star archive
48. My Factory, kitchen and bedroom showroom, near Aldridge, 1987
“My Factory” proudly promoted itself as combining the best of European style - Italian flair, French practicality, German craftsmanship and British value for money. In April 1987, the photograph shows a woman making use of a kitchen in the new showroom, reflecting the growing trend for modern fitted interiors and aspirational home design. Do you remember when showroom kitchens like this felt like a glimpse into the future of home living? | Express & Star archive