- Merry Boys Pub Sign -
I get underway with the Willlenhall Road where the junction with Deans Road is notable for the presence of the Merry Boys pub, a place where I can recall enjoying belly busting brunch meals a good few years ago. I then seek out the corner of Tyburn Road to get a few shots of the local war memorial.
- Tarran Estate Commemorative Arch -
Into the East Park estate next and Hurstbourne Crescent is a different place to the one I initially encountered ten or more years ago. Back then the area was an enclave of tarran bungalows that had been constructed after the Second World War and consisted of corrugated roofs and pebbled concrete wall panels. Some of these bungalows had survived for nigh on sixty years but the Council deemed it financially unviable to upgrade them to meet modern living standards, hence the remaining homes were demolished and their existence is now commemorated by a decorative archway next to the local library.
- Site of the Dan O'Connell -
Another feature I recall from my first East Park visits was the Dan O'Connell pub, which was situated on the corner of Hurstbourne Crescent and Thornton Road. The building was flattened a good while ago and the site remained empty for quite some time, but has now been reclaimed as the location for some new flats.
- East Park Clock Tower -
I can't pay a visit to East Park estate and not reacquaint myself with the park itself. It's a place I've always enjoyed taking photos of but today there was the added interest of catching up with the ongoing restoration project here. Partly financed by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the initiative aims to bring about a range of improvements including the renovation of the lake and adjacent terrace. Work is very much continuing on those aspects of the scheme but its pleasing to see that the park's bandstand and clock tower have been returned to full working order with both features looking mightily impressive.
- Stowlawn Terminus -
Leaving the park behind, I cast a glance along Stowheath Lane where the Hare & Hounds pub has finally been demolished - Rog and I had a drink here back in 2004 but all that remains of the place now are the concrete bollards that formerly guarded the car park. I then pass Stowheath Pool to cross into the Stowlawn estate, reacquainting myself with the bus terminus where I've previously lain in wait hoping for a shot or two of the 526 bus, although its the 34 route that mainly calls here these days.
- Grapes Pool Notices -
Weaving around onto Prouds Lane, I pause momentarily for a look at Grapes Pool, a well-known beauty spot that is particularly popular with local anglers. The whole scene is watched over by the somewhat stately Grapes pub, itself very much a landmark on Moseley Road.
- The Long Acres -
The Grapes is still trading as a public house but the same cannot be said of the Long Acres on Dilloways Lane, which is set to be converted into a place of worship hence the religious motif on the perimeter railings.
- Tesco Express -
After a brief peek at St Chad's Church, Willenhall Road is on hand to herald my final approach into Bilston. The Cock Inn (more recently known as the Hustler) was a familiar feature here for many years but has now passed into history, replaced by a Tesco Express supermarket where the final touches are being applied in preparation for the forthcoming store opening. With that, an enjoyable lunchtime walk is complete but my exploration endeavours in 2014 have only just begun...
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