Pictures and Video: A fine Black Country Day was had by all

Proud residents came out to in force celebrate all the Black Country has to offer.

Since its launch in 2012, the day has gone from strength to strength – showing the pride all Black Country residents have in this area.

There was a European twist to the commemoration at the Red House Glass Cone in Wordsley, which jointly celebrated both Black Country Day and Bastille Day – which commemorates the storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution.

French artist, Josephine Tournebize of Josephine Tournebize Jewellery flew the Tricolore outside her studio and opened her doors to show off her work.

Central Library in West Bromwich held a bake-off event to mark the day, while there was a special menu on offer at Age UK in Brierley Hill.

Dignitaries gathered at Dudley Castle to fly the Black Country flag in front of one of the region's most iconic landmarks.

Festival organiser Steve Edwards said the response from members of the public this year has been better than ever.

He hailed the buzz Black Country Day created on social media as a sign of how support for the event continues to grow.

Mr Edwards told the Express & Star: "It went really well – it was a long day but a great day.

"The turnout was absolutely amazing. The amount of people out on the streets was fantastic but not only that but the reaction on social media was absolutely crazy.

"People were sharing pictures of the Black Country flag and it went mad online.

"It's always been about bringing the community to the forefront and promoting the region.

"This has linked the community with councils and businesses which is great.

"To see people's pride and passion is fantastic."

Founder and organiser Mr Edwards has had to take six months off work to put it all together.

He attended Westminster and the Houses of Parliament this week to promote the region along with fellow organisers and representatives from the region including Dudley council leader Pete Lowe.