These fascinating archive photographs take you back more than 50 years to a county of familiar landmarks, busy town centres, thriving communities and everyday moments that capture life in another era. From local businesses and industry to village events, transport, sport and celebrations, the collection brings together the people and places that helped shape Shropshire’s story.
Whether you remember the 1970s first-hand, recognise places your family once knew, or are discovering this period for the first time, these pictures offer a chance to explore a Shropshire that has evolved over the decades - and the memories that remain.
How many places can you recognise? Share your memories with us in the comments.
Did you see our gallery from 1972? Find it here.
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33. Ercall Junior School, Wellington, 1975
A playground game with a political twist - Ercall Junior School pupils in Wellington create their own version of hopscotch during the 1975 Common Market referendum. Eleven-year-old Elizabeth Wood and her friends were growing up at a time when a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ vote would shape the country’s future. Do you remember the referendum being discussed at home or school? | Shropshire Star archive
34. Regent Street, Wellington, 1975
A glimpse of Wellington’s changing streetscape in the 1970s. Councillor Joe Gittens receives the ceremonial handover of one of 15 new homes in Regent Street, built by Lilleshall Homes for The Wrekin District Council. Do you remember the area before these houses arrived? | Shropshire Star archive
35. Telford, 1975
From mining to a new town. This 1975 photograph captures a tour of the open cast workings at Clares Lane, Overdale, as land was reclaimed for Telford's future. Pictured are John Tomlinson, Bert Lang, Mervyn Whitcut, Bill Thomas and Alan Williams. Do you remember this changing landscape? | Shropshire Star archive
36. All Saints Parish Church, Wellington, 1975
Before the sparkle of the finished display came the hard work behind the scenes. Bill Doody prepares the Christmas tree lights at All Saints Parish Church gardens, Wellington, in 1975. Do you remember gathering to see the lights switched on? | Shropshire Star archive