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X-WR-CALNAME:Brierley Hill Community Forum
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Brierley Hill Community Forum
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T154500
DTSTAMP:20260813T160703Z
CREATED:20260813T160036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T160703Z
UID:1520-1789826400-1789832700@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Week: Graveyard Walk - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Step into St Michael’s historic churchyard and uncover the fascinating lives behind its headstones. \nThis guided daytime walk brings Brierley Hill’s history vividly to life through carefully researched stories of ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives. Hear about war heroes\, industrial pioneers\, tragic losses and curious mysteries\, all shared with warmth\, knowledge and humour in true Brierley Hill fashion. \nMore than a tour of graves\, this is an opportunity to discover the people\, events and personal histories woven into the town’s heritage. Each memorial offers a doorway into another chapter of Brierley Hill’s story\, revealing lives whose influence reached through the local community and\, in some cases\, far beyond it. \nThe churchyard walks have become a firm favourite within the town’s Heritage Open Day programme. Previous visitors have described them as “informative and moving” and praised the “wonderful weaving of stories and histories”. \nPerfect for anyone interested in genealogy\, social history\, local characters or simply hearing a good story told well. \nThe walk begins at 2pm and can be combined with a visit to St Michael’s Church\, which is open from 10am until 3pm with tours\, exhibitions and activities throughout the day.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-week-graveyard-walk-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/graves-Brierley-Hill-2026.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T143509Z
CREATED:20260818T143509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T143509Z
UID:1572-1789819200-1789833600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Delph Stables: Tales from the Towpath - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Discover Tales from the Towpath at Delph Stables and explore the fascinating canal heritage of Brierley Hill’s historic Nine Locks. \nStanding beside the Dudley No. 1 Canal\, the Grade II listed Delph Stables offer a glimpse into the days when working horses were essential to life on Britain’s waterways. They pulled boats carrying raw materials and finished goods through the Black Country\, connecting its mines\, factories and communities to the wider canal network. \nStep inside the historic stables and meet Canal & River Trust volunteers\, who will share stories about the building\, the remarkable flight of locks and the generations who lived and worked beside the canal. Informal heritage talks will take place throughout the day\, allowing visitors to discover more at their own pace. As the towpath is narrow\, volunteers will manage group sizes to keep everyone safe and comfortable. \nYounger visitors can try traditional canal-inspired Rose and Castle painting\, take part in water-safety games and enjoy fishing-themed activities. \nEnjoy the atmospheric canalside setting and discover how its people\, animals and industries helped keep the Black Country moving.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/delph-stables-tales-from-the-towpath-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Delph Locks Stables\, Mill Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 2TD\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/stables-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T140000
DTSTAMP:20260818T140817Z
CREATED:20260818T140723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T140817Z
UID:1547-1789815600-1789826400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Albion Street Church: Heritage\, Hospitality and Family Fun - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Discover the history and community spirit of Albion Street Church and The Storehouse. \nAlbion Street Church will open from 10am until 2pm\, inviting visitors to explore a building that has served Brierley Hill since the 1870s. Tour the church\, view historic documents and discover how it has changed over the generations while retaining many of its original features. \nThe displays tell the story of the church’s place within the town and its continuing work at the heart of the local community. Volunteers will be available to welcome visitors\, answer questions and share more about the building and its history. Free light refreshments will also be available inside the church. \nFrom 11am until 2pm\, the celebrations continue next door at The Storehouse with the Big Brierley Hill BBQ. Enjoy free food\, live music and activities for all the family\, including a bouncy castle\, face painting\, badge making and a free tombola. The Storehouse Coffee Shop will also be open. \nWhether you come for the history\, hospitality\, music or family fun\, Albion Street offers a warm welcome and plenty to enjoy.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/albion-street-church-heritage-hospitality-and-family-fun-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Albion Street Church\, Albion Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/albion-street-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T133634Z
CREATED:20260818T133634Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T133634Z
UID:1534-1789812000-1789830000@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:St Michael’s Church: Bells\, Memorials and Hidden Meanings - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Standing in an elevated position overlooking the town\, St Michael’s has been part of Brierley Hill’s story since 1765. The Grade II-listed church has been enlarged and restored several times\, reflecting the growth and changing life of the community around it. \nVisitors are invited to explore the church and discover its architecture\, memorials and historic features through tours taking place throughout the day. \nFollow the stained glass safari to uncover the symbols and hidden meanings within the church’s colourful windows\, try traditional brass rubbing and enjoy hands-on activities using the church’s handbells. \nVisitors will also have a rare opportunity to enter the ringing room and try ringing one of the church bells\, offering a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of this familiar Brierley Hill landmark. \nJoin a guided walk through St Michael’s extensive churchyard and discover some of the people whose lives helped shape Brierley Hill.\nThe churchyard includes the graves of notable local figures such as George Lovatt\, known as the Brierley Hill Giant\, and John Corbett\, the Salt King. \nRefreshments will be available throughout the event\, providing an opportunity to pause\, meet members of the church community and share memories of the building.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/st-michaels-church-bells-memorials-and-hidden-meanings-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/screenshot-2026-08-13-at-123117.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T143000
DTSTAMP:20260818T141521Z
CREATED:20260818T141521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T141521Z
UID:1552-1789812000-1789828200@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church: Pugin\, Pipes and Parish Life - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Discover the history\, craftsmanship and living heritage of St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church\, a striking Grade II-listed building designed by celebrated Gothic Revival architect E. W. Pugin. \nThe church will open its doors for visitors to explore its richly decorated interior\, intricate wall paintings and colourful stained glass. Guided tours will reveal more about the building’s architecture\, spiritual heritage and enduring place within the story of Brierley Hill. \nThroughout the day\, visitors can explore historic displays in the church and Parish Centre\, follow the popular mouse trail and enjoy stained-glass-inspired colouring activities. \nRefreshments and homemade cake will be available throughout the event. Hot pork cobs will also be served between 11am and 1pm on a first-come\, first-served basis. \n 
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/st-marys-roman-catholic-church-pugin-pipes-and-parish-life-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:St Mary’s RC Church\, 26 High Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3AE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/st-marys-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T144938Z
CREATED:20260818T144938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T144938Z
UID:1577-1789808400-1789833600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Brierley Hill: Market Peaky Blinder of a Day - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Brierley Hill Market will be filled with music\, movement and vintage character for its Heritage Open Day celebration\, A Blinder of a Day. \nAt the heart of Brierley Hill for generations\, the market has long been a place where people come together to shop\, trade\, exchange news and experience the character of the town. This special event celebrates that community spirit with lively entertainment alongside the market’s familiar stalls and traders. \nVisitors are encouraged to embrace the theme\, dress in their finest vintage-inspired outfits and enjoy performances from Vanessa Lees Vocals\, Georgina Abigail Dancers and the Sadler Vintage Blinders. \nBrowse the stalls\, meet the traders and soak up the atmosphere as the market combines its proud trading heritage with music\, dance and plenty of personality.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-market-peaky-blinder-of-a-day-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Brierley Hill Market\, High Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Family event,Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/market-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T160000
DTSTAMP:20260910T104236Z
CREATED:20260818T143112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T104236Z
UID:1567-1789808400-1789833600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:The Civic – Brierley Hill: Stories from the Stage - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Let Brierley Hill in Bloom lead you on a colourful journey through the town centre this Heritage Open Day. \nFive specially designed planting schemes create a trail between participating venues and activities\, helping visitors navigate the wider programme while discovering stories from Brierley Hill’s past. \nEach group of planters has been inspired by a different person\, place\, landmark or industry that helped shape the town. The carefully chosen flowers\, foliage and colours contain clues to the heritage they represent. \nFor generations\, The Civic – Brierley Hill has brought people together for performances\, celebrations and shared experiences. \nFor Heritage Open Days\, the poster display panels mounted outside the Civic will become an open-air exhibition exploring the history of the venue and the wider story of entertainment in Brierley Hill. \nHistoric photographs\, memories and stories will celebrate the performers\, audiences and community events that have helped make the Civic such an important part of the town. \nThe exhibition will create an engaging stopping point between the other Heritage Open Day venues across Brierley Hill\, allowing visitors to explore the Civic’s story at their own pace.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-civic-stories-from-the-stage-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:The Civic – Brierley Hill\, The Civic\, Bank St\, Brierley Hill DY5 3DA\, DY5 3DA
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/civic-Brierley-Hill-2026NEW.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T142629Z
CREATED:20260818T142629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T142629Z
UID:1563-1789808400-1789833600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Brierley Hill in Bloom: A Heritage Flower Trail - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Let Brierley Hill in Bloom lead you on a colourful journey through the town centre this Heritage Open Day. \nFive specially designed planting schemes create a trail between participating venues and activities\, helping visitors navigate the wider programme while discovering stories from Brierley Hill’s past. \nEach group of planters has been inspired by a different person\, place\, landmark or industry that helped shape the town. The carefully chosen flowers\, foliage and colours contain clues to the heritage they represent. \nDescriptions displayed beside the planters reveal the thinking behind each design and explain its connection to the surrounding area. Take time to read them as you travel from place to place\, and discover how familiar streets are linked to generations of local enterprise\, industry and community life. \nThe trail can be explored in either direction and at your own pace. Complete the full route or enjoy individual displays as you move between the churches\, market\, library and other Heritage Open Day locations. \nLook closely as you explore. There may be a few little characters and unexpected surprises hiding among the flowers for younger visitors to spot along the way.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-in-bloom-a-heritage-flower-trail-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Brierley Hill High Street\, High Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3ET\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Family event,Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/in-bloom-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T134735Z
CREATED:20260818T134516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T134735Z
UID:1540-1789808400-1789833600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Brierley Hill Library: Maps\, Memories and the Brier Rose - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Step inside Brierley Hill Library and uncover the people\, places and events that have shaped the town. \nExplore a fascinating local heritage display featuring historic photographs\, books\, records and ephemera from the library’s collection. Discover unusual objects and remarkable stories\, from Brierley Hill’s industrial past and wartime experiences to the everyday lives and memories of local people. \nA planned guest display from Little Orchard Workshop will offer another way to view the changing town through precision-carved wooden maps based on genuine historical records. Look closely at familiar streets\, vanished landmarks and the industries that once surrounded them\, including Brierley Hill High Street and Round Oak Steelworks. \nFrom 10am until 12 noon\, visitors of all ages can create a Brier Rose inspired by the flower depicted on the town’s historic coat of arms. Simpler crafts will be available for children\, alongside a more detailed challenge for adults and experienced crafters. \nBrowse the library’s collections and share your own memories of Brierley Hill with staff and fellow visitors. \nThe library is open from 9am until 4pm. Regular library crafts will also take place from 2pm until 4pm. No booking is required.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-library-maps-memories-and-the-brier-rose-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Brierley Hill Library\, 122 High St\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3ET
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/library-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260919T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260919T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T142216Z
CREATED:20260818T142216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T142216Z
UID:1556-1789808400-1789830000@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Stories in Stone: Brierley Hill Methodist Church - Sat 19th September
DESCRIPTION:Step inside Brierley Hill Methodist Church and discover a place shaped by faith\, fellowship and generations of community life. \nLearn how several local churches and congregations came together to form the Methodist Church visitors see today\, and explore features preserved from earlier buildings\, including the original stained glass. \nTours of the church will reveal more about its history\, its chapel and its continuing place within Brierley Hill. The church remains an active community hub\, hosting groups\, activities and events that bring local people together throughout the year. \nHourly guided graveyard walks will introduce some of the fascinating people laid to rest here. Their stories reach from Brierley Hill into national life and across the world\, encompassing notable local figures\, sporting history and the spread of Methodism overseas. \nThe church will be open from 10am until 3pm\, with graveyard walks taking place on the hour. Tea\, coffee and a warm welcome will be available throughout the day.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/stories-in-stone-brierley-hill-methodist-church-sat-19th-september
LOCATION:Brierley Hill Methodist Church\, 39 Bank Street\, Brierley Hill\, Brierley Hill\, DY5 3DA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/methodist-brierley-hill-2026.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260915T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260917T213000
DTSTAMP:20260917T080948Z
CREATED:20260813T155025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T080948Z
UID:1514-1789501500-1789680600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Week: Graves at Night - Tue 15th\, Wed 16th\, Thu 17th September
DESCRIPTION:As dusk falls\, step into the shadows of St Michael’s Churchyard and uncover the fascinating lives behind the headstones. \nThis atmospheric guided walk brings Brierley Hill’s history vividly to life through carefully researched stories of ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives. Hear about war heroes\, industrial pioneers\, tragic losses and curious mysteries\, all shared with warmth\, knowledge and humour in true Brierley Hill fashion. \nSubtle lighting transforms the peaceful churchyard as darkness gathers\, creating a memorable setting in which voices from the town’s past can be heard once again. More than a tour of graves\, this is an evening of storytelling that reveals the people\, events and personal histories woven into Brierley Hill’s heritage. \nGraves at Night has become a firm favourite within the town’s Heritage Open Day programme. Previous visitors have described it as “informative and moving”\, praised the “wonderful weaving of stories and histories” and said that the lighting of the graves added greatly to the experience. \nPerfect for anyone interested in genealogy\, social history\, local characters or simply hearing a good story told well. \nWalks begin at 7.45pm on Tuesday 15th\, Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th September. Places are free but limited to 25 people per walk. \n 
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-week-graves-at-night-tue-15th-wed-16th-thu-17th-september
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/graves-night-Brierley-Hill-2026.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250920T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250920T150000
DTSTAMP:20250717T154939Z
CREATED:20250717T154939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T154939Z
UID:1279-1758362400-1758380400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Day: Heritage Meets Innovation - Dudley College Inspired Campus
DESCRIPTION:For the first time ever\, Dudley College’s Inspired Campus on Venture Way opens its doors for Heritage Open Day\, offering a rare glimpse inside one of the town’s most modern learning environments. This is a unique opportunity to explore how heritage can be interpreted through innovation. \nTour the campus — including its TV studio\, creative spaces\, and digital workshops — and learn how today’s students engage with the past using the tools of tomorrow. Expect a fresh and exciting take on heritage\, with activities\, displays\, and possibly live demonstrations (programme to be confirmed closer to the day). \nAs a key part of Brierley Hill’s ongoing regeneration\, the Inspired Campus offers a different kind of heritage story — one rooted in learning\, aspiration\, and community transformation. \nJust a short walk from Harry’s Café\, Albion Street Church\, and the bustling Market\, the campus adds a new dimension to your Heritage Open Day route. After soaking in the high-tech spaces\, why not contrast your experience with the historic architecture of St Michael’s or St Mary’s Church\, or take in the storytelling magic of the Graves at Nightwalk? \nIt’s the perfect stop for those curious about the future as well as the past.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-day-heritage-meets-innovation-dudley-college-inspired-campus
LOCATION:Dudley College – Inspired – Brierley Hill\, Venture Way\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 1RG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Exhibition,Family event,Historical,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Dudley-College-Poster.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250920T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250920T150000
DTSTAMP:20250716T072731Z
CREATED:20250715T202320Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T072731Z
UID:1172-1758362400-1758380400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Day: St Michael's Church
DESCRIPTION:St Michael’s Church invites you to experience a rich tapestry of local history\, architecture\, and wartime remembrance. Explore the early 19th-century building through guided tours\, revealing how the Oxford Movement influenced its spiritual and architectural development. \nTry your hand at ringing the 150-year-old Whitechapel handbells\, or climb up to the ringing chamber for a rare look behind the scenes. Children and adults alike are welcome to take part in interactive activities\, including colouring and crafts. \nThe acclaimed WWII exhibition returns with compelling local content: Luftwaffe maps showing Brierley Hill as a target\, documentation on civil defence\, the story of the “Brierley Hill Spitfire\,” and tributes to local war casualties. This moving tribute captures the town’s resilience and sacrifice. \nVisitors last year praised the “uplifting” church atmosphere\, “excellent exhibitions\,” and “amazing stories about local heroes.” One person wrote: “Being in the church is uplifting. The amazing glass windows and the Brierley Hill Crystal.” Another said\, “We had a lovely blessing celebrating our 60th wedding anniversary. We were married in this church in 1959.” \nPart of the wider town celebration\, it’s a short walk to Brierley Hill Library\, St Mary’s Church\, and the “Graves at Night” walk.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-day-st-michaels-church
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibition,Family event,Historical,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-16-2025-at-08_16_03-AM.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250920T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250920T143000
DTSTAMP:20250721T183309Z
CREATED:20250715T204633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T183309Z
UID:1193-1758362400-1758378600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Day: St Mary's Church
DESCRIPTION:Step inside one of Brierley Hill’s finest architectural treasures: St Mary’s Church\, designed by celebrated Gothic Revival architect E. W. Pugin. This 19th-century masterpiece opens for special guided tours\, offering insights into its unique design\, heritage\, and spiritual history. \nAdmire intricate wall paintings and stained glass\, and enjoy a live organ recital in the church’s serene setting. Learn about the influence of Pugin’s vision and how it helped shape Victorian religious architecture across the country. \nIn the absence of our dear Helen Barley\, with her harps\, this year\, organist Richard James has kindly agreed to hold two organ “demonstrations” between 10.30-11am and 11.30-12noon.\n\nVisitors are encouraged to join him in the choir loft\, during these sessions. Children to be accompanied by an adult\, due to the steep steps to the loft.\nThe church’s friendly community offers light refreshments and a warm welcome. \nThe popular Mouse Trail will be back this year\, along with stained glass effect colouring activities for visitors and refreshments will be available throughout. \nThis event forms part of the wider Brierley Hill Heritage Open Day. Visitors are encouraged to explore nearby venues such as St Michael’s Church with its wartime tributes\, Brierley Hill Library’s historic artefacts\, and the bustling market with its themed performances. \nOne past visitor shared: “Visitors appreciated the organ and harp performances – some even received impromptu harp lessons.” Another said\, “A very enjoyable and worthwhile event.”
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-day-st-marys-church
LOCATION:St Mary’s RC Church\, 26 High Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3AE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Exhibition,Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/st-marys.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250920T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250920T140000
DTSTAMP:20250717T155308Z
CREATED:20250715T204941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T155308Z
UID:1196-1758362400-1758376800@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Day: Free BBQ\, Family Fun\, Exhibition at Albion Street Church
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Albion Street Church for a joyful mix of heritage\, hospitality\, and hands-on family fun. This welcoming venue opens its doors with a free BBQ\, children’s activities\, and a chance to learn more about the church’s role in Brierley Hill’s spiritual and social life. \nThe church will be hosting the activities and BBQ in their community building The Storehouse\, and the event features badge making\, face painting\, bouncy castle\, and creative play — perfect for children and families. Last year\, over 400 people attended and described the day as “full of life and community spirit.” \nInside\, you’ll find a display of the church’s longstanding local history\, documenting its mission\, architectural features\, and connections with generations of residents. Volunteers are on hand to guide visitors and share stories. \nThis vibrant stop is part of the wider Heritage Open Day programme. Combine your visit with nearby venues like Harry’s Café with its crafts and food\, or Brierley Hill Market’s Peaky Blinders day\, both just a short walk away. Round off your day with the Graves at Night walk or a reflective moment at St Mary’s Church. \nWhether you’re here for the sausages\, the stories\, or the smiles — Albion Street offers a little something for everyone.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/heritage-open-day-free-bbq-family-fun-exhibition-at-albion-street-church
LOCATION:West Midlands
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Crafts,Exhibition,Family event,Historical,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-15-2025-at-09_05_08-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250916T195000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250918T213000
DTSTAMP:20250923T163039Z
CREATED:20250715T204303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T163039Z
UID:1184-1758052200-1758231000@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Week: Graves at Night - Tue 16th\, Wed 17th\, Thu 18th September
DESCRIPTION:As dusk falls\, step into the shadows of St Michael’s Churchyard and uncover the fascinating lives behind the headstones. The Graves at Night guided walk brings local history vividly to life\, with carefully researched stories of ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives. \nYou’ll hear about war heroes\, industrial pioneers\, tragic losses\, and curious mysteries — all told with warmth and humour in true Brierley Hill fashion. Subtle lighting adds to the atmosphere\, and the peaceful setting becomes a stage for voices from the past to be heard. \nThe walk has become a favourite in the town’s Heritage Open Day programme. Comments from past participants include: \n“Such a fabulous day. The graveyard tour was amazing!”\n“Wonderful weaving of stories and histories.”\n“Thoroughly enjoyed the walk — informative and moving.”\n“Great to see the community engagement.”\n“The lighting of the graves really added to the experience. The story of the nun was especially appreciated – would love a women’s history walk one day.” \nIdeal for those interested in genealogy\, local history\, or simply hearing a good story told well. Not to be missed — and perfectly timed to allow visits to other nearby venues during the day\, including St Michael’s Church\, Brierley Hill Library\, and St Mary’s Church.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/graves-at-night-3
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Graves-at-Nigh-Poster.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250914T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250919T210000
DTSTAMP:20250716T073013Z
CREATED:20250715T203614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T073013Z
UID:1178-1757836800-1758315600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Heritage Open Week: Visit the Ringing Chamber for Sunday Ringing (14th Sept) or Come to a Ringing Practice (Fri 19th Sept)
DESCRIPTION:For a truly rare Heritage Open Day experience\, climb into the historic ringing chamber at St Michael’s Church and discover the powerful\, rhythmic world of English change ringing. \nThe church’s eight bells\, cast by the renowned Taylor Bellfoundry in 1899\, were the first in the Black Country to be tuned using the Simpson Five-Tone principle — an innovation that shaped modern bellringing acoustics. Brierley Hill once boasted one of the region’s most outstanding peal bands\, and now you have the chance to follow in their footsteps. \nVisitors will: \nTour the ringing chamber\, rarely open to the public.\nHear the bells in action during a live ringing session.\nTry ringing a bell themselves\, guided by experienced ringers.\nLearn about the fascinating techniques and mathematical patterns known as “methods.”\nDiscover the unique heritage and dedication behind the art of tower bell ringing. \n📅 Two opportunities are available:\nSunday Ringing Session\nDate: Sunday\, 14th September\nArrival: 09:50 | Ringing: 10:00–10:30 \nMax: 8 participants\nFriday Practice Sessions\nDate: Friday\, 19th September\nTwo time slots: 7:30 PM and 8:15 PM (Max 8 per slot)\n👉 Booking is essential at www.brierleyhill.net – these sessions fill quickly and are not available throughout the year.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/visit-the-ringing-chamber-for-sunday-ringing-or-come-to-a-ringing-practice
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Exhibition,Performance,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ChatGPT-Image-Jul-16-2025-at-08_17_57-AM.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250823T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250823T163000
DTSTAMP:20250819T181127Z
CREATED:20250812T074719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250819T181127Z
UID:1306-1755950400-1755966600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:EAT the STREET
DESCRIPTION:EAT the STREET 23rd August 12 to 4pm – An inside-out festival of food. Come and try our High Streets great food outlets\, cafes\, bakeries\, butchers\, delis and stalls. All participating food vendors will have ‘Secret Eats’ and ‘Off the Menu’ items for your taste buds to try. Just look for a poster and pop inside to ask what’s cooking. Did you know there are specials and secret snacks\, burgers\, shakes\, cakes\, tripple decker pork sandwiches and many other hiidden gems available here\, all year round? \nWe are also working with Taste from India to create the YAMOSA! An EAST meets WEST MIDS – BLACK COUNTRY FUSION street food that will blow your freakin mind. The only way to try it is buy it\, so get yours while you can. Big ingredients reveal on BBC Radio WM Thursday Breakfast show. All proceeds from YAMOSA sales will go to the Sands United FC Dudley baby loss charity. \nThere is entertainment too…\nOn Saturday 23rd of August from 12 to 4pm.\n12pm to 1pm Slick 6 Choir at Brierley Hill Market Hall Café\, singing all your favorite tunes\, but nicely…\n1pm to 2pm Kasperia – Classic rock with a fresh modern twist will be playing in the new Lion’s Way walkthrough next to the Brier Rose public house.\n2pm to 3.30pm Food Fun at the library for all. Fun family workshop to create your fantasy plate of food. Brierley Hill library will also be showcasing all of their cookery and recipe books for all ages during the event. Badgemaking iis also available with special EAT the STREET templates\, or create your own one-off badge. \nFeel free to come along and enjoy your food with the entertainment. Or just find a nice bench near by. There is also a large CIVIIC GREEN park right in front of the police station\, where you can have a more horizontal picnic. \nIf you are a food retailer in Brierley Hill High Street and we have not managed to sign you up yet please contact us at culture@brierleyhill.net. We have tried to get to as many as possible\, but some of you were busy with a lot of cuustomers when we came around. We will continue to try and get to you between now and the event. \nLook out for stewards in PINK HI-VIZ on the day. These Brierley Hill Pointers will help you find your way around and guide you to the activities. \nBrierley Hill Community Forum – Cultural Consortium
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/eat-the-street
LOCATION:Brierley Hill High Street\, High Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3ET\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Food,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Eat-the-Street-shop-window.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Chamberlain":MAILTO:culture@brierleyhill.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250621T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250621T140000
DTSTAMP:20250523T180214Z
CREATED:20250523T134122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250523T180214Z
UID:1092-1750503600-1750514400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Cake Not Hate - Treasure Hunt Picnic
DESCRIPTION:Fun for all the family!  Do you like cake\, samosas and freshly baked crusty cobs? Discover our town’s treasured foods and share in musical entertainment and activities at our community picnic. We have 25 free places available for this event. \nSimply click RSVP at the bottom of this page to reserve your place. Please note maximum of 5 per booking.  Note start times vary from 11am to 11.30am.  You will be sent your arrival time and town centre start venue a few days after you RSVP. \nCome to Brierley Hill town centre on Saturday 21st June to collect your picnic bag and begin the treasure hunt. Follow the map to a secret location\, picking up goodies along the way\, ready to join our community picnic with your fellow treasure hunters! \nThe treasure hunt involves a walk around the high street shopping areas followed by a short walk to the picnic venue. The route is wheelchair accessible and step-free\, and there’s an accessible toilet at the venue. \nThe event will run from your start time to 2pm.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/cake-not-hate-treasure-hunt-picnic
LOCATION:Brierley Hill Town Centre
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Family event,Historical,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Cake-Note-Hate-SM-Post-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Frank Chamberlain":MAILTO:culture@brierleyhill.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250323T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250323T130000
DTSTAMP:20250307T113109Z
CREATED:20250307T094603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250307T113109Z
UID:979-1742727600-1742734800@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Brierley Hill at War - guided walk
DESCRIPTION:YOUR PUB NEEDS YOU!\n\nFREE guided walk through our war time history in aid of the Royal British Legion\n\nThe walk will set off from The Swan\, Brettell Lane on Sunday the 23rd of March at 11am\, with the aim of looking at and walking through the shared war time history along Brettell Lane and into Brierley Hill.\n\nThe tour will take in the industrial past as a base for ways in which the local people served their country in the 1st and 2nd world wars. Observing an industrial landscape that fed the war effort and discovering stories of the people who fought here and overseas during both wars.\n\nExpect to see historic buildings and spaces including the canals\, parks\, graveyards\, war memorials\, churches\, a pig tunnel and a recently excavated WW2 ROC lookout towers foundations. There will be stories of bombings & blackouts\, crashing air crews\, the Home Guard\, POWs and American G.I.’s.\n\nIt will be a circular route with some steep paths taking approximately two hours\, following which the Swan will generously be serving hot cobs on the return to the pub.\n\nAll are welcome but there are  limited places for this walk. Please only sign up if you can definitely come on the day. Click the RSVP link to reserve your place. All collections and donations on the day will go to the Royal British Legion.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-at-war-guided-walk
LOCATION:The Swan\, Brettell Lane\, Brierley Hill\, 10 Brettell Lane\, Amblecote\, West Midlands\, DY8 4Bn\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Remembrance,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Untitled-design.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240914T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240914T150000
DTSTAMP:20240903T101133Z
CREATED:20240830T170521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T101133Z
UID:832-1726308000-1726326000@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:St Michael's Church - Free to Explore!
DESCRIPTION:See inside the Brierley Hill’s oldest building (1765).  Now grade 2 listed.  Look around the church – the inside will surprise you –  visit the historic graveyard (self guided tour available).  Learn about the memorials in the church and admire the stained glass windows.  At the same venue there will be Stained Glass based activities\, Craft Book making\, handbell ringing and the rare opportunity to visit the bell tower and ringing room.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/st-michaels-church-free-to-explore
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Crafts,Historical,Remembrance,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/St-Michaels-open.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240914T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240914T140000
DTSTAMP:20240903T101205Z
CREATED:20240831T092623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T101205Z
UID:842-1726308000-1726322400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Albion Street Church - Free to explore
DESCRIPTION:Built in 1882 this building served initially as a Congregationalist Church.  During the Second World War\, Brierley Hill’s Air Raid Patrol centre was located here.  The inside of the building has been extensively refurbished in the last few years and this is an opportunity to see a fine example of what can be done to adapt an old building for modern use.  A chance to explore and a historic exhibition available.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/albion-street-church-free-to-explore
LOCATION:Albion Street Church\, Albion Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Albion-Street-open.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240914T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240914T140000
DTSTAMP:20240903T101233Z
CREATED:20240830T171639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T101233Z
UID:836-1726308000-1726322400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Former Library and Technical Institute
DESCRIPTION:Work is ongoing on this fabulous building.  Opened in 1904 as a Technical Institute\, Art School and college\, the building has some fine examples of Terracotta figures\, designed by Mart Masters Gibbons and Oaken.  Inside are tiles donated by the famous Gibbons and Hinton tile factory and admirable stained glass.  The outside of the building is being renovated as part of the council’s Heritage Action Zone project\, funded by Historic England.  Inside work is being done to convert the building to residential uses.  This is a super opportunity to visit the building part way through the conversion.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/former-library-and-technical-institute
LOCATION:Technical Insitute and Library\, Moor Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Technical-institute.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240912T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240912T213000
DTSTAMP:20240903T101610Z
CREATED:20240830T142343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T101610Z
UID:819-1726170300-1726176600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Graves at Night - the original
DESCRIPTION:Explore the history of Brierley Hill through the stories of the people who\, literally\, made the town.  This guided walk is delivered after dusk to give added atmosphere as we walk around the graveyard.  This walk has “sold out” (there’s no fee for the walk) in previous years and has received rave reviews (blushes!). Bring your own torch – some are available to borrow\, but your own may be better and dress appropriately for an evening walk.  Remember there may be rainy weather too.  Good footwear essential. RSVP to book your place.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/graves-at-night-the-original
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Logo_Bottom_right.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240910T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240910T210000
DTSTAMP:20240910T165546Z
CREATED:20240830T135723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240910T165546Z
UID:807-1725997500-1726002000@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Graves at Night 2 – Commonwealth Graves and the War Memorial
DESCRIPTION:Building on the popular Heritage Open Days Graves at Night walks held in the last two years\, this successor walk looks at some the most significant graves in the churchyard:  The Commonwealth War Graves.  The walk will look at some of the 21 CWGC graves in the churchyard and tell the stories behind them.  We will also visit the town War Memorial to learn of the fight to get it funded and erected\, plus details of the more than 300 names on it.  As a special added bonus\, participants will receive a copy of the 36 page War Memorial Centenary Booklet. 
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/graves-at-night-2-commonwealth-graves-and-the-war-memorial-2
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Remembrance,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Graves-at-Night-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240909T194500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240909T210000
DTSTAMP:20240903T102136Z
CREATED:20240830T135244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T102136Z
UID:802-1725911100-1725915600@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Graves at Night 2 - Commonwealth Graves and the War Memorial
DESCRIPTION:Building on the popular Heritage Open Days Graves at Night walks held in the last two years\, this successor walk looks at some the most significant graves in the churchyard:  The Commonwealth War Graves.  The walk will look at some of the 21 CWGC graves in the churchyard and tell the stories behind them.  We will also visit the town War Memorial to learn of the fight to get it funded and erected\, plus details of the more than 300 names on it.  As a special added bonus\, participants will receive a copy of the 36 page War Memorial Centenary Booklet. Please note: YOU MUST RSVP to register for this walk – there are limited spaces.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/graves-at-night-2-commonwealth-graves-and-the-war-memorial
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Remembrance,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Graves-at-Night-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230916T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230916T153000
DTSTAMP:20240830T075231Z
CREATED:20230830T091334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240830T075231Z
UID:662-1694872800-1694878200@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Walk of Remembrance
DESCRIPTION:Learn the story of Brierley Hill’s war memorial and the men commemorated on it.  Visit the Commonwealth War Graves and family memorials in St Michael’s Churchyard. Visit the memorials inside the church too in this wonderful\, emotional and moving walk.  Sensible footwear needed\, and be prepared for all weathers.  Booking required for safety reasons as there is a little bit of road walking to the memorial.
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/walk-of-remembrance
LOCATION:St Michael’s Church\, Bell Street South\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, DY5 3EX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Child friendly,Crafts,Historical,Remembrance,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/3.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230916T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230916T150000
DTSTAMP:20230903T113014Z
CREATED:20230814T155835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230903T113014Z
UID:532-1694858400-1694876400@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:St Michael's Church - Explore\, take part\, enjoy!
DESCRIPTION:Visit Brierley Hill’s oldest building.  Built in 1765 almost all historic events have passed through this church.  There’s lots of things to do for all ages: \n1000-1200 Teddy bear parachute jumps from the top of the tower (weather permitting) \nHandbells 1030\, 1130 and 1230 \n1000-1200 Visit the ringing room and chime one of the 125 year old church bells \nBadge making with the library – all day \nRattle and Rhyme 1000 \nHeritage Poetry at noon \n 
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/st-michaels-church-explore-take-part-enjoy
LOCATION:West Midlands
CATEGORIES:Exhibition,Family event,Historical,Remembrance,Take Part,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/St-Michaels-Church-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230916T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230916T140000
DTSTAMP:20230819T073937Z
CREATED:20230819T073937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230819T073937Z
UID:592-1694858400-1694872800@brierleyhill.net
SUMMARY:Brierley Hill Technical Institute and Library\, Moor Street
DESCRIPTION:An extraordinary opportunity to view the inside of this landmark building in Brierley Hill.  The building served for 70 years as the town’s library and also housed Brierley Hill Technical Institute and Art School. Recent social media posts illustrate the many happy memories this building holds.  This may be the last opportunity to see the inside of the building before a new use is found. \n1904 tour \nTo whet your appetite here is a transcription of a 1904 newspaper article which describes the building at its opening.  The rooms and features are still recognisable today: \nThe new buildings are imposing block\, and constitute the finest erection in the urban district. \nThe only regret felt is that the structure is not erected in High Street\, but\, as was stated at the time the negotiations for a site were in progress\, it was impossible to obtain land in the main street at anything like the cost which it was proposed to spend in this direction. In one instance a sum of £3\,000 for an acceptable site was mentioned\, but this\, as well as one or two other offers\, were deemed to be far beyond the means at dispose\, and eventually the Bell Street and Moor Street site was adopted. \nThe buildings give the appearance of great strength and durability\, and are rich in ornamentation and most pleasing to the eye. \nThey have an elevation to Moor Street\, on the technical side\, of 95 feet\, whilst the free library elevation to Bell Street extends for a length of 54 feet. \nThe whole of the exterior walls are of best red Ketley bricks and terra cotta\, also supplied by the Ketley Brick Company. \nThe entrance to the technical school is in Moor Street and that to the free library in Bell Street. \nThe richly-ornamented terra-cotta around the respective doorways constitutes one of the striking features of the structure. \nThere are heavy semi-circular arches supported by ornate buildings\, and surmounting each entrance is an ornamental niche\, that over the free library containing a shield upon which is described “Libri\,” and over the technical institute is a similar figure grasping a shield with the inscription “Art.” These figures were modelled by Mr. A. Gibbons\, master of the art classes\, and Mr. A. Oakden\, his assistant. \nThe corner of the building is nicely rounded off by a circular window in each of the two storeys\, and above rises a fine terra-cotta dome of imposing proportions. \nThe roof of slate is bounded by an ornamental parapet wall\, and a turret of oak springs from the centre. The foul air from all the rooms is carried to the turret by shafts. \nInside the main entrance in Moor Street is a vestibule spanned by an elliptical arch leading into the corridor from which access is gain to the rooms on the ground floor. \nThe first of these – a small one – is directly on the left\, and is set apart for the private use of the master for interviews with intending pupils\, and other purposes. \nThe floors of the corridors are of Terasso paving\, and the sides from the vestibule\, also up the staircase and upper corridors are lined with a dado of fancy glazed tiles of green tints\, manufactured by Messrs Gibbons\, Hinton and Co.\, by who part were given as a contribution to the building. A special feature\, too\, has been made of the plastering\, to which reference has previously been made in our columns as the work has proceeded. \nThe ceilings and cornices are finished with beautiful mouldings\, this work being most commendably done by Mr. V. Lydiatt\, Dudley. \nThe room directly in front of the Moor Street entrance was originally intended as a cloak room for students\, but has now been devoted to clay-moulding\, for which no other room was available\, and cloak room accommodation will be made elsewhere. \nTo the right is the laboratory\, 41ft by 25ft\, which will be fitted up by Messrs W. and J. George\, Ltd.\, Birmingham with the latest and most approved apparatus for chemical\, physical and metallurgical experiments. \nAdjoining is the lecture theatre\, where class instruction in science\, languages\, etc\, will be given. Returning along the corridor and beyond the vestibule\, there is on the left a dark room\, which is let to the Brierley Hill Camera Club. \nThe other portions of the technical side are upstairs\, reached by two wide flights of stone steps\, bounded by an artistic iron balustrade. \nAt the top of the first flight of steps is a semi circular topped window with coloured glass\, 17ft high by 9ft wide\, the large centre panel bearing the emblem of painting. \nOn reaching the upper storey there is a ladies’ retiring room\, two art rooms run along the portion of the structure facing Moor Street\, and there is a third spacious room above the lecture theatre. \nAt the junction of the two streets is the committee room\, 30ft by 25ft\, where in the future the monthly meetings of the Urban Council and Free Library Committee will be held. It is intended to have this room elaborately fitted as a Council Chamber. \nDescending the stairs\, a door to the right admits to the reading room of the free library\, and from this by way of the vestibule inside the entrance doors the lending library is reached\, both rooms being spacious and light\, and\, like those of the technical school\, lofty and richly-ornated in cornicing and mouldings. \nThe entrance doors to the Free Library and Technical Insitute are of Spanish mahogany. \nMessrs. Skelding and Co.\, Dudley\, have laid the electric light fittings throughout and a gas service is also laid on. Under the lecture theatre is a chamber containing a low pressure heating apparatus supplied by Messrs. Jones and Attwood\, Stourbridge. \nCommemorative Tablets \nThree brass commemorative tablets were erected in the building\, one in the Technical Institute and two in the Free Library. \nThat in the Institute was inscribed as follows:- \n“This tablet commemorates the opening on the 15th day of February\, 1904\, of the Brierley Hill Technical Institute by County Alderman John Addison\, who was chairman of the Technical Instruction Committee from its foundation in 1891 to 1903.” \nIn the vestibule of the free library the tablet bears the following:- \n“This public library was erected by the munificence of Andrew Carnegie\, Esq.\, L.L.D.\, of Skibo Castle\, N.B. ; opened 15th February\, 1904.” \nThe third tablet\, which is in the reading room of the library contains an inscription as appended:- \n“This tablet commemorates the opening on the 15th day of February\, 1904\, of this Public Library and Reading Room by Mark Rollinson\, Esquire\, Chairman of the Free Library Committee.” \nThe key which was presented to Mr. Mark Rollinson contained the following inscription:- \n“Presented to Mark Rollinson\, Esq.\, by J. L. Harpur\, architect\, February 15th\, 10904\, on the occasion of the opening of the new Free Library\, Brierley Hill.” \nThe inscription on the key presented to Mr Addison\, who opened the Technical Institute\, was in similar terms. \nThe Cost \nIt is not possible to give more than an approximate estimate of the cost which the buildings will entail\, but roughly the round figure of £7\,000 will not be far from the sum involved. \nThe principal contributions are: Mr Carnegie’s munificent gift of £2\,000\, the executors of John Hall (from whom the site was acquired) £130\, the Earl of Dudley\, £100\, Mr W. H. Foster £100\, Mr. E. E. Cooper £50\, the Ketley Brick Company £50\, Messrs Gibbons\, Hinton and Co.\, tiles to value of £20\, Mr Alfred Marsh\, £20\, Messrs John Hall’s Glazed Brick Works Limited\, materials valued at £20 etc. \nThe Staffordshire Country Council gave a building grant of £800\, and in addition a sum of £300 to the provision of furniture\, apparatus\, etc\, in the Technical Institute. Both these grants are\, however\, subject to alteration\, and in the event of the ultimate cost being an increase on the original estimate\, these amounts will\, it is believed\, be raised to one-third each of the actual expenditure on the technical instate building. The bazaar which was held last year with the primary object of raising the money required for the site yielded\, with donations\, a sum of nearly £600\, and these items\, together with subscriptions of small value to those above enumerated\, provide a sum of about £4\,000. The balance required for the outlay will be the subject of a public load. \nCounty Express 20 Feb 1914 \n 
URL:https://brierleyhill.net/event/brierley-hill-technical-institute-and-library-moor-street
LOCATION:Technical Insitute and Library\, Moor Street\, Brierley Hill\, West Midlands\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Historical,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://brierleyhill.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMG_2224.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Tim Sunter":MAILTO:tim@sunter.uk
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR