Ready for a bostin' Black Country Day
The countdown has begun as preparations are under way for Black Country Day, to be held on July 14.
'Black by day and red by night.' That is how the Black Country was famously described by Elihu Burritt, the 19th Century American diplomat and travel writer.
The 'black' he was referring to was, of course, the thick smoke generated by industry, which gave the region its name.
The 'red' came from the fires produced by the same factories.
While the Black Country's rich history is undoubtedly one to be proud of, the region did not stop producing things to shout about when the foundries and collieries closed.
Nowadays it is famed for everything from its cuisine, such as faggots and peas, to musical sensations like One Direction's Liam Payne and soul singer Beverley Knight – both from Wolverhampton.
Preparations are now under way for a day celebrating all that is great about the region.
Councils are busy planning events to take place around Black Country Day on July 14, as is the Black Country Living Museum.
Dudley Council is already flying the Black Country flag, designed by Redhill School pupil Gracie Sheppard.
Jo Moody, senior curator at the Dudley museum, it was important to mark the region's history for two reasons.
She said: "One thing is the significance of the history of the Black Country and the story in the Black Country of enterprise and industry.
"The legacy from its industrial past is you have got an area with a really strong dialect, a strong food culture, a strong sense of humour."
Among the Black Country's most notable achievements are the Newcomen Engine, which was the first successful steam engine when invented by Thomas Newcomen in 1712. But speaking to Black Country folk, it is clear that in their minds that one thing that truly makes the place stand out: the people.
Retired electrician Don Linney, aged 78, of Meadow Lane, Wombourne, is a member of The Black Country Society.
He said: "I always think the people are more friendly here. It's changing of course.
"Places are getting bigger and the towns are sort of merging. We don't want it to lose its identity, do we?" However, some feel the Black Country gets a bad rap. Retired Tesco cashier Doreen Jones, aged 72, of Baynton Road, New Invention, Willenhall, said: "I think people have preconceived ideas about the Black Country.
We've got lots of open spaces."
Fire alarm commissioning engineer Carl Cullis, 52, of Hailes Park Close, Wolverhampton,
said: "There's a lot of stuff come out of the Black Country. If it wasn't for us, Britain wouldn't be what it is.
Rob Garner, 25, of Wellington Road, Bilston, added: "I'm born and bred here and I'm proud.
Kylie Cook, 22, of Albert Road, Bilston, said: "I love it. OK, there could be more jobs but that's the Government."
Doreen Whittingham, 74, of Briarwood Close, Ettingshall,
said: "There's so much about the Black Country and they're very friendly people, the majority."
Mrs Whittingham's daughter Beverley, 49, added: "We should be proud. That's what you come from. There's no need to be ashamed. You am what you am."
Lets get this years celebrations right:
After Black Country Day celebrations fell flat last year – with only a lone flag flying outside a government office in London – organisers are doing all they can to do the region justice this time around.
The date of July 14 has been set aside as a day to champion not only the region's proud history, but also its current achievements and landmarks.
Leading the way with preparations is the Black Country Living Museum, which is planning a weekend of 'discovery trails' on July 12 and 13.
Families will be given tours around landmarks surrounding the Tipton Road museum in Dudley, from the rolling mill to the anchor forge.
En route they will meet Black Country poets, musicians and other performers. Councils in the region are also planning their own activities.
Dudley Council is playing its part by flying a new, officially-registered Black Country flag from Dudley Town Hall to kick off celebrations.
And today the local authority revealed a month of celebrations is being planned for July.
Clubs and bars are working with councillors to gather local artists for live music events at the Stourbridge Carnival on July 5 and 6.
Other community groups, meanwhile, are sourcing Black Country bunting and car stickers so that everybody can get involved.
Councillor Peter Lowe, deputy leader of Dudley Council, said: "People want the opportunity to celebrate where they come from.
"I'm proud to be born, bred and forged in the Black Country. I'm proud of my background, as are many people," he added.
Overwhelmed
"It's about celebrating what we've got with regard to art and music and getting the community and business organisations to come on board with that.
"We have been contacted by hundreds who want to get involved since the flag got raised on Monday. We have been overwhelmed." Meanwhile, Wolverhampton City Council is still finalising its plans for the day, while Sandwell and Walsall Councils are looking into the possibility of celebrating, although no firm plans have been put in place so far.
Councillor Roger Lawrence, leader of Wolverhampton City Council, said: "I am sure that the Association of Black Country Authorities would support a Black Country Day and the flying of the Black Country flag.
"This is not only in recognition of the enormous contribution the Black Country has made, and continues to make, to our nation over the years, but also to mark the continued success of the four Black Country boroughs working together in partnership."
