These photographs from the Shropshire Star archives capture life across the county in 1978, from royal visits and famous faces to community events, local industry and historic moments.
Prince Charles flew into Shrewsbury to open the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, while Richard Burton and Billy Connolly brought film-set excitement to Ellesmere College. Elsewhere, villagers recreated the Silver Jubilee in Llanfair Waterdine, young riders competed at Wistanswick gymkhana, and miners fought to save Granville Colliery.
What are your memories of 1978? Did you see Prince Charles arrive by helicopter, work on Stanmore Industrial Estate, or take part in any of the events featured? We'd love to hear your memories, so share your stories in the comments below.
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45. Taking the horns for a prize-winning show display
Jackie Egerton proudly poses alongside her impressive two-year-old Jacob ram, Casper, during the 1978 West Mid Show in Shrewsbury. Held on May 18 and 19, the annual agricultural event drew crowds from across the county to admire top-quality livestock and farm displays. Photographed by Derek Schofield, this charming snapshot captures Casper showing off his distinctive curved horns and award rosette in true champion style. Did you visit the West Mid Show in May 1978, or do you remember showing livestock at the showground? | Shropshire Star archive
46. A bird's-eye view of rooftops, landmarks, and daily life
Taken from high above, this sweeping panorama from May 1978 captures Shrewsbury's historic town centre in incredible detail. Looking down over the sprawling rooftops, key landmarks stand out clearly - including the busy dairy in the bottom left corner, the prominent tower of St Alkmund's Church to the top left, and the bustling Smithfield market towards the top right. How much has this aerial layout changed since 1978, and can you spot your old home or workplace among the streets? | Picture: Aerofilms Ltd
47. Racer-sharp focus on the water for speech day
Spectators gather along the banks and balcony outside the Shrewsbury School boathouse to cheer on the crews during the annual speech day regatta on June 2, 1978. The thrilling boat race on the River Severn is captured as the two rowing crews cut through the water side by side. Did you attend the school speech day regatta back in the summer of 1978, or perhaps take to the water yourself in one of these crews? | Shropshire Star archive
48. Saddled up and stylish for the summer gymkhana
Dressed in smart riding jackets and velvet hats, young competitors stand alongside their ponies as they prepare to enter the ring at the Wistanswick fete and gymkhana. Pictured getting ready for the judges in early July 1978 are (from left) 12-year-old Jane Norton with Titch, 13-year-old Tracy Lloyd with Lady Jane Grey, and 15-year-old Alison Norton with Shady. The photograph captures a quintessential village tradition that brought riders and families together from all around. Do you remember taking part in the Wistanswick gymkhana, or perhaps competing on horse back during local village fetes in the late 1970s? | Shropshire Star archive