A CLASSIC bus tour of Wyre Forest’s historic landmarks proved so popular that more road trips into the district’s fascinating past are already being planned.

Kidderminster’s Heritage Opportunities Group (HOGS) was delighted with the response to two tours which helped bring National Heritage Day to life earlier this month

Almost 100 people jumped on board for the sell-out trips on a 1973 Midland Red Leopard bus, provided by Wyvern Omnibus, and there was even a reserve list of 40.

Dave Laverty, who provided an on-board running commentary, said: “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the two-and-a-half-hour tours which took in more than 30 places of interest.”

Passenger Richard Heelis said: “The bus was great. It took me right back to the Seventies. It was fascinating to hear the back story of these historic buildings and streets of Kidderminster that I had noted on my rambles.”

And Sharon Cartwright said: “I have lived in Kidderminster all my life, and still learned and saw loads I knew nothing about.”

One of the highlights was a stop at Brockway Carpets in Kidderminster where the company laid on a special Saturday shift so visitors could see carpet being woven from yarn to the finished item on the latest 21st century looms.

Mr Laverty added: “We are so grateful to everyone who helped make the day such a memorable one, in particular the Weavers Cottages Trust, the Living Looms project at Stourport, Brockway Carpets and the Museum of Carpet and we are aiming to run the tours again in the future.”

The focus of this year’s Heritage Day was weaving in Kidderminster and the town hall hosted a wide range of activities which attracted more than 200 people.

They were treated to performances by poet and songwriter Heather Wastie from her ‘Spinning Yarns’ show based upon the work, lives, and loves of carpet workers, while spinning demonstrations and an exhibition on the history of the Horsefair Weavers Cottages project were also popular.

The day featured a 60th anniversary exhibition by Kidderminster Archaeological and Historical Society, and Wyre Forest Historical Research Group showed its work in investigating and preserving the town’s heritage.

Self-guided tours were also provided for visitors who wished to explore the Victorian Corn Exchange and Town Hall.