LANDMARK buildings in Dudley town centre will virtually welcome visitors from today to mark Heritage Open Day.

The events are a celebration of the country’s architecture and culture, where venues not usually open to the public allow access, from September 11.

Due to Covid 19, several of Dudley town’s key buildings will be taking part online, with short films allowing online visitors the chance to discover the hidden treasures lying within the well known buildings.

Virtual visitors will be view the council chamber, visit the Town Hall including the rarely seen Hans Feibusch Mural and drop in on the largely unchanged Coroner’s Court, which retains its original fittings and furnishings. People can also look behind the portcullis doors of the old police buildings, access the Memorial Tower and former Brooke Robinson Museum.

There will able be the chance to take look inside the Grade II listed Crown Public House, step back in time to get a taste of past policing at the Old Police Station and then have a rare behind the scenes peek into Dudley's landmark places of worship, including the ancient ‘Top’ and ‘Bottom’ churches and Dudley’s Catholic Church.

Events are also planned to celebrate the history of Brierley Hill.

People can take part in a historical tour of the town and make their own sketches. Starting at the library, the tour takes in many of the historical buildings including the water fountain, the market, St Mary’s Catholic Church, Marsh Park, the war memorial, St Michael’s Church, the former technical school and library and the Civic Hall. The route can be downloaded from the free izi.travel@NT app.

Two Brierley Hill walks have also been produced by botanical expert Pamela Smith starting in Marsh Park, telling the story of 30 plants. The walks each take about an hour at an easy pace.

There will be an online tour featuring the historic treasures held at Brierley Hill library including a fine collection of artefacts, old images and maps illuminating the town’s history. There are also a number of online virtual tours of places of worship in Brierley Hill with St John’s Brockmoor, Brierley Hill Mosque, St Mary’s Catholic Church and Brierley Hill Methodist Church all being available.

Cllr Ian Kettle, cabinet member for planning and economic development said: "This year has been a challenge, due to Covid 19, but rather than cancelling the event we used it as an opportunity.

"Dudley borough has a very proud heritage and many historically important buildings, and it is important we capture the information while possible and this year’s filming has certainly allowed us to do this. This is a real treat for anyone interested in our rich architectural heritage.

"These buildings and spaces usually have the disruption of people, but the pandemic enabled us to film while empty. We have got up close and personal with the fabric of the buildings, showcasing little gems not usually easily recognisable, such as the Dorothy Round message etched into the windows at the Council House.

Dudley’s films and accompanying leaflets, are available to view online at www.dudleyheritageopendays.org.uk for the duration of the celebration from September 11.

For more information on Brierley Hill activities and tours visit http://brierleyhill.net/