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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17. Phoenix School, Dawley, 1972
An empty swimming pool at Phoenix School in Dawley in March 1972, shortly before pupils helped clean it after professional cleaners proved too expensive. The effort was a great example of school community spirit. Do you remember the pool, or were you one of the pupils who lent a hand? | Shropshire Star archive
18. Oswestry County Infants school, 1972
Helping little ones cross the road safely, members of the Tufty Club junior road safety committee stepped in near Oswestry County Infants' School in January 1972 while the regular crossing patrol was off ill. Do you remember the Tufty Club, or being taught road safety at school? | Shropshire Star archive
19. Madeley, 1972
A royal visit brought Prince Philip to Shropshire in July 1972, when he officially opened Madeley Court Centre/School after visiting other landmarks including the Iron Bridge at Ironbridge. Pictured during the visit are the Duke of Edinburgh and Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire Lt-Col A. Heywood-Lonsdale. Do you remember the occasion, or did you catch a glimpse of the royal visitor during his trip? | Shropshire Star archive
20. Christ Church, Little Drayton, 1972
Voluntary community work saw trainees from Stoke Heath Borstal helping to clear the churchyard at Christ Church, Little Drayton, in 1972. The image reflects a scheme that encouraged inmates to contribute to the local community, with their identities concealed in the published photograph. Do you remember this project, or the changes at Christ Church over the years? | Shropshire Star archive