Take a look back at Shropshire in the 1960s, a decade of change, memorable moments and everyday life across the county.
From the transformation of towns and major roadworks to traditional country shows and life in rural communities, these photographs capture a county balancing its past with an increasingly modern world.
The collection features some fascinating moments from the decade, including Queen Elizabeth II arriving by Royal Train, a star-studded cabaret night with Diana Dors, celebrations marking the Salopia coach company's jubilee and local characters taking on daring transatlantic challenges. There are also quieter glimpses of life in Shropshire, from walks across the Stiperstones to gatherings in busy parish halls.
Together, these archive photographs offer a snapshot of the people, places and events that made Shropshire in the 1960s such a memorable time.
Do you recognise any of the places or people? Share your memories in the comments.
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17. Showbiz glamour lights up Hadley Castle Works annual dinner
Flashing her famous beaming smile, actress and blonde bombshell Diana Dors shares a light-hearted moment backstage with entertainer Des O'Connor on December 12, 1964. The celebrated duo brought top-tier showbusiness sparkle to Hadley when they headlined the cabaret bill for the annual dinner of foremen and supervisory staff at Joseph Sankey and Sons' bustling Hadley Castle Works. Were you or someone in your family lucky enough to attend the Sankey works dinner and see these household stars perform live on stage? | Shropshire Star archive

18. Towering recruit stands tall on the beat in Bridgnorth
Standing an imposing 6ft 6in and still growing, 17-year-old police cadet David Wall cuts an unmistakable figure on duty in Bridgnorth in June 1966. Joining the Shropshire Constabulary from Birmingham five months earlier, the towering teenager faced an initial struggle to find off-the-peg kit or a flat with a bed long enough to sleep in, but finally hit his stride after receiving a bespoke, tailor-made uniform and properly sized quarters. Do you remember spotting the famously tall young cadet patrolling the streets of Bridgnorth back in the summer of 1966? | ©PA

19. Next generation looks on at the Young Farmers rally
Five-year-old Edward Foster of Bridgnorth watches with rapt attention as Ludlow competitor Gordon Morgan deftly shears a heavy fleece at the Shropshire Young Farmers rally in June 1961. Staged on the wooden boards at the West Midland Showground in Shrewsbury under the keen eye of adjudicators in white coats, the competitive event saw Morgan take third place while offering young onlookers a masterclass in rural craft. Did you ever attend or take part in the lively Young Farmers competitions held at the West Mid Showground over the years? | Shropshire Star archive

20. Birthplace of industry captured in quiet spring repose
Spanning gracefully across the River Severn beneath the hillside terraces of St Luke's Church and the town, the world's very first cast-iron bridge forms a dramatic silhouette in April 1963. Erected in the late 1770s, the pioneering monument gave its name to the community and heralded the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, standing proud as a timeless centrepiece of Shropshire's rich heritage. Do you remember strolling across the historic bridge or visiting the gorge in the peaceful years before it became a bustling tourist landmark? | ©PA

