The second talk of the 'Within Walking Distance' project is by Phil Daniels of The Birmingham Canal Navigations Society.
'Round about the Crow' takes us on an illuminating and epic journey through the Langley canal network. And to top things off, Phil plays a lovely song connecting us with the rich humanity of the Langley community.
There are two public talks at Langley Library during the course of the 'Within Walking Distance' project. The first is by acclaimed local historian and author, Dr. Terry Daniels.
Terry is Chair of the Langley Local History Society and he delivers a fascinating talk on a series of well-known local landmarks.
There's an excellent turn-out, including two members of the local community policing team.
Another highlight of the 'Within Walking Distance' project is the Poetry Workshop run by the fabulous Emma Purshouse.
Wolverhampton born Emma is a hugely gifted performance poet, comedienne and author. She's also a highly talented teacher, as I experience first hand during her Workshop. Photos taken, I put down my camera, join in and compose a mawkish haiku about my recent visit to the community centre in Langley Park.
Here it is in all its perfunctory glory ...
iron gates shutter
the sun lit grey haired smiles
parked memories
Passing on quickly, I thoroughly recommend a listen to this poem written by Emma to celebrate the WWD project.
Dear Sheddists,
a few months ago my future son-in-law asks if I would like to get involved in a new project funded jointly by Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
'Within Walking Distance' is the project in question and it brings together history, poetry, photography and animation to celebrate the unique heritage and culture of Langley, in the Black Country.
The project has been initiated by the Friends of Langley Library group and it focuses on twenty five famous landmarks, some old some new but all within walking distance of Langley Library.
My role will be to document the various events that bring together the local community during the course of the project.
My first assignment is at Smethwick Library where the Friends Group carry out much of their research. I watch as they study books, maps, micro-fiche cards and on-line resources to collect invaluable information both about local sites and the people who made up the social history of Langley.
Here's the group hard at work ...
