Chinn meets fans at book signing

Tales of the Black Country's bygone days were shared when renowned historian Carl Chinn dropped into the Express & Star to sign copies of his new book for fans.

Professor Chinn visited the newspaper's head office in Queen Street to meet and greet readers and promote his latest book Black Country Memories 5, the latest in the popular series which delves into the region's landscape, dialect and unsung heroes.

Supporters queued up to meet Prof Chinn, before sharing their stories of local life with him and having photographs taken.

Pat Cockfield, aged 66, said she had all of his books. The retired care consultant from Aston Road, Willenhall, said: "I think he's fantastic. When he talks about the area's history, you feel as though you are there."

Prof Chinn said the Black Country Memories series had proved a big hit. "It's great to hear people's stories and share in their memories," he said. Fan Cyril Mattox, a 76-year-old retired toolsetter of Fordhouses, said he admired Professor Chinn as he "really knows his onions". "I've got all his books at home and they are very interesting," he said.

Robert Marsh, of Priory Street, Dudley, said the book captured "the real Black Country".

The 62-year-old retired wheelmaker said: "I think his books are important because it's vital we do not lose our history and heritage."

Betty Hopkins, a retired housewife from Tettenhall, said she and husband Colin had also enjoyed the historian's public speeches.

Black Country Memories 5 has been written in conjunction with the Express & Star and features articles from across the region.