Collins I believe later became United Carriers, and had a long history in Walsall Wood. If anyone can help with information on this photo, that would be great cheers. Image supplied by Clive Roberts.
I’m always keen to promote the work of other local historians here on the Brownhills Blog; we can never have too many voices in this thing and Clive Roberts, Walsall Wood historian and author is one of the nicest and most diligent of them all – his work on Walsall Wood and Shire Oak has been thorough, but understated, and from his emails to me, Clive is always working on something new of interest.
You’ll no doubt remember Clive has supplied much great material to the blog and has published two books: one on Shire Oak and another on Walsall Wood, both of which have been very well received. Do pick up copies if you can.
The author is now happy to issue copies of either of his books in PDF form on a DVD if required. Comment here if you’re interested and I’ll pass the message on.
I hear he’s now working on a third book, which seems to have some surprises in store. I look forward to seeing what he has up his sleeve!
In the meantime, Clive has supplied this excellent photo of a Collins Parcel Service van. I have no idea of the date or location, but Collins later became United Carriers and were a noted Walsall Wood company for many years.
Any information welcome.
Clive has also tipped me off that he’s started a history resource site to bundle found useful material together in one place: there are great maps, unusual photos, newspaper clippings and more. The maps are brilliant and I may well borrow some…
I wish Clive all the best in his continued careful and thorough work. He really is a local treasure.
Please, comment here or BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com. Cheers!
Teesdale 1842 map of Shire Oak: What a poster this is. Note the pubs marked, and Clayhanger Common, and older name than many think. Click for a larger version. Image courtesy Clive Roberts.