This gallery revisits the stories making the news across the county in 1961.
Drawn from the Shropshire Star archive, these photographs capture familiar faces, everyday moments and remarkable curiosities steeped in local history — from a village doorstop said to be a brick from the Great Wall of China, to hospital patients being wheeled outside to enjoy a sports day. Together, they are sure to spark a wave of nostalgia.
Don’t forget to share your own memories with us in the comments.
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1. Newport, 1961
A nostalgic look back to Newport in 1961, when the Women’s Institute ran a market stall in the town’s Indoor Market. Now known as Newport Country Market, the stall has since marked over 50 years in the community. Seen here from left are Mrs Lea (assistant controller), Mrs Williamson (secretary), Mrs Miller (controller), Mrs Rugman (treasurer) and Mrs Vallings (committee member), proudly representing the Newport WI. The stall carried the sign “Shropshire Women’s Institute Markets Ltd”, reflecting a long-standing tradition of local produce and community enterprise. | Shropshire Star
2. Craven Arms, 1961
An 18th century Gothic country cottage on the private estate of Major Hubert Holden, of Sibdon Castle, near Craven Arms, pictured on or about June 12, 1961. Major Holden at this time offered it on a long lease to a family who would appreciate it and put it in good order, and the Mount family were chosen. | Shropshire Star
3. Shrewsbury, 1961
A look back to Shrewsbury and the Gay Meadow in April 1961, where Arthur Rowley scored a penalty against Walsall to equal Dixie Dean’s long-standing league goalscoring record. Played in front of an all-time record crowd for the fixture, the match ended 2–1 to Walsall, who secured promotion to the Second Division for the first time in 60 years. | Shropshire Star
4. Cheswardine, 1961
Cheswardine County Primary School’s top class, circa 1960–61. A handwritten note with the photograph recalls that all the children lived within the parish or a 2.3-mile radius of the school. The image lists pupils alongside their headmaster, Mr Thomas, with names recorded as follows: Back row: Roger Beeston, Ken Lainton, John Ball, Richard Lunt, Robert Madders, Mr Thomas (headmaster). Middle row: Paul Wright, Bryan Loynton, Elizabeth Nagginton, Pauline Humes, Sylvia Foster, Elizabeth Healy, Jennifer Parsons, Ian Forrester. Front row: Annette Taylor, Dot Wassal, Pat Hoole, Jean Simpson, Pauline Baggott, Sara Madders, Angela Griffiths, Linda Parsons, Audrey Lea, Georgina Cooper, Gina Llewellyn. | Shropshire Star