‘‘Manufacturing, Past, Present and Future” was celebrated at the Institute of Directors’ Black Country Dinner at Dudley Zoological Gardens and Castle.

Professor Carl Chinn MBE fascinated his audience by describing how the Black Country has long been at the very forefront of British manufacturing. He cited many further examples of how West Midlands’ skill, innovation and industry has helped shape this country.

Alan Mullock, of Toyota GB, spoke about manufacturing present, stressing the need for adaptability and the need to make small changes every day.

Professor Mark Stanford, of the University of Wolverhampton, a leading expert in 3D printing, spoke about the future and the startling advances being made in engineering.

Pictures by John Hipkiss