From giant engineering machines built for export around the world to school trips, wedding pranks, historic traditions and memorable days at Dudley Zoo, these archive photographs capture life in Dudley during 1978.
The collection reflects the borough's proud industrial heritage, community spirit and the people who helped shape the area, with glimpses of familiar workplaces, local events, the early days of the Black Country Museum and stories that made the headlines.
Nearly 50 years on, these pictures offer a fascinating snapshot of a changing Dudley. See if you can spot a familiar face, recognise a favourite place or remember one of the moments that brought back memories. We'd love to hear your stories in the comments.
Did you see our gallery looking back at summer days across the region? Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane here.
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25. St John's Ambulance, Netherton, 1978
Who remembers the dedication of St John Ambulance volunteers? This 1978 picture captures a proud moment for Hillcrest School’s young nursing cadets in Netherton, who won the Arthur L Hillman Challenge Trophy after competing against teams from across the area. Pictured are Carol and Elaine Williams, Sue Mai Li, Carol Williams and Sharon Moore. | Express & Star archive
26. Stourbridge, 1978
Who remembers when pre-wedding pranks were all part of the fun? In 1978, bride-to-be Carol Williams became the centre of attention after her colleagues chained her to a pillar in Stourbridge High Street – with a promise she'd be released before walking down the aisle. | Express & Star archive
27. Dudley, 1978
When the community pulled together, remarkable things could happen. This 1978 picture shows Dudley ambulancemen Ken Mitchell, Harry Reaney and Cliff Wilkinson preparing a retired ambulance for emergency service after local organisations and residents helped fund its return to the road. | Express & Star archive
28. Occupational Health Unit, Pensnett Trading Estate, 1978
As thousands of people worked in the factories and foundries of the Black Country, occupational health services played an important role behind the scenes. This March 1978 picture shows Jayne Blackford, Barbara Haywood and Pauline Kendrick with a patient at the Occupational Health Unit on Pensnett Trading Estate, Brierley Hill. | Express & Star