A number of former workers at the Round Oak Steelworks turned out to a see a monument unveiled in Brierley Hill honouring the historic site.

The workers, now pensioners, watched as the Mayor of Dudley cut the ribbon on the artwork. It is situated on the junction of Dudley Road and John Street in the town.

The first citizen of the borough, Councillor Hilary Bills, and the deputy leader of the council, Councillor Paul Bradley, both gave speeches.

There were poetry readings by Claire Tedstone and Brendan Hawthorne, and a historical talk by Keith Hodgkins. Workers posed for photos and moved on to the nearby Rose and Crown for refreshments to share old stories.

The steelworks, built on more than 100 acres of land, was a major employer in the town for nearly 130 years between 1857 and 1982.

The 14-foot-high memorial takes the form of a ladle suspended in the air pouring molten metal. It has been designed by Dudley borough artist Steve Field.

Councillor Hilary Bills, the Mayor of Dudley, said:

“I was incredibly honoured to cut the ribbon on such an important reminder of our past, in front of so many people who were a living, breathing part of it.

“The Round Oak Steelworks are an important part of Brierley Hill’s history, having employed so many in the town over such a long period of time.

“The monument sits on a gateway entrance into Brierley Hill and will be a great addition to the town.

“I hope it will act as a meeting point for local people, including former steelworkers or their relatives, to reflect and remember Round Oak.”

Councillor Paul Bradley, deputy leader of the council, said:

“As someone who grew up in Brierley Hill on the nearby Hawbush estate, I can recall vividly when I was 12 and it was announced that the steelworks was closing.

“At that time everyone knew someone who worked there. A healthy percentage of the people on my street worked there, or was associated with Round Oak Steelworks in some form or other. It was a massive employer in the borough.

“This monument is a fitting testimony to the memory of the steelworks and everyone who had an association with it.”