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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13. Clearing the ground for football ground improvements
A Priestman Mustang 120 excavator operated by local firm Anslow's of Telford tackles a pile of rubble along Watling Street in Wellington during January 1978. Heavy machinery was brought in to knock down aging structures directly adjacent to Telford United's Bucks Head ground, aiming to widen and improve access routes for supporters and enhance local amenities. Looming in the background, the stadium's prominent floodlight pylon stands tall over the transformation of the surrounding area. Do you remember matches at Telford United back in the late 1970s or the changes around Watling Street? | Shropshire Star archive
14. Leading the way for local teachers in the classroom
Deputy head Mrs Daphne Roberts sits surrounded by eager young pupils at Alexander Fleming Primary School in Telford during January 1978. Alongside her daily teaching and administrative duties, Mrs Roberts served as president of the Wrekin Teachers' Association, representing educators across the area during a period of significant growth and development for schools in the expanding new town. Were you a pupil at Alexander Fleming School in the 1970s, or do you remember Mrs Roberts from her time with the Wrekin Teachers' Association? | Shropshire Star archive
15. Bandages at the ready for Newport's caring crew
Members of the Newport Red Cross team demonstrate their first aid skills during the annual inspection of Salop Red Cross volunteers in Shrewsbury on April 23, 1978. Smartly turned out in their official berets and uniforms, Mrs Violet Minton, Mrs Nellie Painter, and Mrs Mary Peate lend a helping hand to fellow volunteer Mr William Lewis during a practical assessment. Do you remember the dedicated Salop Red Cross volunteers who served Newport and Shrewsbury throughout the 1970s? | Shropshire Star archive
16. Army volunteers line up for a high-spirited rally display
Gavin Sherry of Donnington (far right) joins fellow soldiers from the 52 Company Royal Army Ordnance Corps (RAOC) volunteers alongside a rally car during a publicity event in March 1978. Set inside Telford Shopping Centre with familiar storefronts like Stead & Simpson in the background, the group, along with spirited supporters perched on the bonnet, struck a cheerful pose to promote army volunteer opportunities and local motorsport ties across the region. Do you remember seeing RAOC promotional displays or rally events around Telford's shopping centres in the late 1970s? | Shropshire Star archive