Step back in time and discover some wonderful memories from Wolverhampton and the Black Country.
From local pubs and workplaces to schools, celebrations and everyday life, this gallery brings together snapshots from the 1940s through to the turn of the millennium. The pictures are in no particular order, so settle in and enjoy the journey through the decades.
There are plenty of faces, memorable moments and fascinating glimpses of how the region looked and lived over the years - from school days and busy factories to jubilee parades and much-loved local pubs.
Do you recognise anyone or remember any of these places? Take a look through the pictures and share your memories with us.
- Remember these? 47 brilliant pictures of school days across Staffordshire and the Black Country in the 1980s.
- You can enjoy this and more with our weekly FREE Nostalgia Newsletter - with scores of archive pictures and exclusive features on the history of Wolverhampton, Staffordshire and the Black Country - all sent to your inbox every week. Sign up here.
21. Basking in the glory of Britain's top spot for real ale and good company
Bathed in a warm, golden glow pouring through ornate stained-glass windows, locals enjoy a peaceful pint and a game of cards in January 2000 at The Rising Sun in Tipton. Run with pride by Penny McDonald and Jackie Walker, the beloved watering hole officially reached the pinnacle of pub culture when CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) crowned it Britain's Best Pub. With its wall-mounted beer mats, traditional velvet drapes, and cosy atmosphere, this tranquil scene perfectly captures why the Black Country's traditional real ale havens remain second to none. Did you ever drop in for a pint at this legendary award-winning pub around the turn of the millennium? | ©PA
22. Cheers to the champions pulling the country's finest pint at The Rising Sun
Pouring a fresh one with absolute pride behind the bar, Penny McDonald (right) and partner Jackie Walker flash triumphant smiles after taking top national honours at The Rising Sun in Tipton. With local punters relaxing in the background under the pub's signature leaded windows, the dynamic duo had every reason to celebrate after putting their local well and truly on the UK map. From pristine hand-pumps to a chalkboard advertising the next quiz night, this lively shot captures the welcoming charm and winning hospitality that earned them CAMRA's coveted crown! Which local real ale pub gets your vote for serving the absolute best pint in the Black Country? | ©PA
23. Open for business and delivering the goods at the local corner shop
Looking sharp as a tack outside his Whitmore Reans shop in 1960, grocer Vernon Hedgecox stands proudly beside his trusty Morris delivery van. With classic enamel advertising signs for Banks’s Ales, TyPhoo Tea, and Lyons Maid Ice Cream framing the shopfront, this wonderful street scene captures the pure nostalgia of local neighbourhood shopping. Joined by a colleague smiling in the doorway, Vernon’s corner store was the true heart of the community - serving up everything from daily essentials to friendly local gossip. Did you or your family ever shop at Vernon Hedgecox's store or remember the classic corner shops around Whitmore Reans back in the day? | Express & Star archive
24. Hats off to Jubilee style as Bilston guild ladies show off winning headwear
Hats, garters, and fabulous festive flair were all on parade as the Bilston Townswomen’s Guild gathered for a lively Jubilee celebration in July 1977! Showcasing their incredible creative efforts, the prize-winning headwear was proudly worn by Dot Lees (standing left) and Kath Dunn (standing right), alongside seated members Mrs E Tershull (left) and Mrs E James (right), who snatched top honours for the best garter. Marking Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee in grand style, the four ladies perfectly embody the joyful community spirit, crafty talents, and sense of fun that swept through the Black Country during the summer of '77. Did your local group or street host a memorable Silver Jubilee competition or fancy-dress parade back in 1977? | Express & Star archive