Britain’s coal miners were on strike, plans for the M54 sparked protests, and communities across Shropshire were adapting to a changing world in 1972.
In this collection of archive pictures, we look back at a year of big events and everyday moments - from pupils rolling up their sleeves to clean their school swimming pool in Dawley, to the opening of new homes, a new police station and the first steps towards Telford’s developing town centre.
There were also plenty of reminders of daily life in the county, including a ‘paraffin perm’ in Kinnerley during a power cut, miners returning to work at Granville Colliery, and youngsters enjoying unusual opportunities at school and in their communities.
These photographs from the Shropshire Star archive capture the people, places and stories that shaped Shropshire in 1972. Do you remember any of these scenes, or can you spot someone you know? Tell us in the comments.
Did you see our gallery looking back at the 1990s? Take a look here.
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1. Market Drayton, 1972
Market day in Market Drayton could mean busy roads in 1972, as this Reliant Regal 21E heads out of town. Do you remember the bustle of shopping days in the town, or can you spot any familiar landmarks that have changed over the years? | Shropshire Star archive
2. Stirchley School, Stirchley Village, 1972
A glimpse inside Stirchley School in October 1972, with headmistress Mrs E M Darlington and teacher Mrs Jill Smith. The school was later demolished, but for many former pupils this picture may bring back memories of lessons, playgrounds and school days in Stirchley. Did you attend the school, or can you spot anyone you know? | Shropshire Star archive
3. Whittington, 1972
A familiar sight in Whittington disappeared in December 1972 when three elm trees, planted to mark the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, were felled to improve safety at a road junction. The decision came after concerns about accidents and the discovery that one of the trees had elm disease. Do you remember these trees, or the changes made to this junction over the years? | Shropshire Star archive
4. Blockleys brickworks, Hadley, 1972
The entrance to Blockleys brickworks in Hadley during a dispute in October 1972. Around 50 to 60 workers returned to the site after striking over pay, only to find themselves locked out, according to union officials at the time. Do you remember working at Blockleys, or the important role the brickworks played in the local community? | Shropshire Star archive