One of the West Midlands’ oldest <link _top>foundries is hosting the regional launch of Heritage Open Days 2008 the country’s celebration of architecture, history and culture.
With an exciting mix of <link _top>molten metal, intense noise and sparks, Chamberlin & Hill <link _top>Castings, in Walsall, is not so different to the <link _top>foundries which made the Black Country famous during Britain’s industrial heyday.
It is normally off-limits to the public but has been opened to a limited number of visitors as one of 300 Midland properties taking part in the Heritage Open Days.
The event is one the nation’s biggest free cultural attractions – co-ordinated by the Civic Trust in partnership with English Heritage.
Suzanne Carter, head of outreach at English Heritage in the West Midlands, said: “For the first time, Chamberlin & Hill <link _top>Castings are opening their doors for Heritage Open Days and will be treating visitors to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of one of the region’s oldest and most successful working <link _top>foundries.
“Thousands of people in the West Midlands take part in Heritage Open Days making it the largest cultural event in the region.
“Over the Heritage Open Days weekend, people share their pride and passion for their local heritage.
“This year the range and diversity of properties is staggering from Hindu temples and Masonic lodges to mines, farms, pubs and factories, so even if you are a regular Heritage Open Days visitor there will be something new for you to see and do.”
Last year, the open days attracted almost a million visitors nationally, with 90 per cent of the population living within 30 minutes of a Heritage Open Day site.
