The year 1997 feels like a recent memory for many, yet a glimpse at the photographic archives reveals a Birmingham that existed in a different era. It was a time before smartphones dominated daily life and the internet was not yet ubiquitous. The city experienced a profound mix of global sorrow and vibrant local culture, captured in a series of compelling images.
A City in Mourning and Celebration
The defining global event of 1997 was the tragic death of Princess Diana in August. Birmingham's response was a poignant public display of grief. Birmingham Cathedral became a focal point, transformed into a shrine where countless residents laid flowers around a tree in her memory throughout September. This sombre scene contrasted sharply with the city's bustling entertainment calendar.
Meanwhile, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and National Indoor Arena (NIA) hosted a stellar line-up of musical legends. Ozzy Osbourne returned with Black Sabbath for a December performance, while Diana Ross graced the stage in June. Other major acts included Phil Collins in November, INXS in June, Bryan Adams in April, and Jean Michel Jarre also in June. Pop sensation Boyzone performed at the NEC on 11th November, and Liam Gallagher and Oasis rocked the NIA on 30th September during their 'Be Here Now' tour.
Sporting Triumphs and Television Fame
On the sporting field, future Olympic champion Kelly Holmes secured victory in the women's 800 metres at the BUPA British Championships and World Trials at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium on 12th July. At Edgbaston, Warwickshire celebrated winning the Sunday League title on 14th September. The world of television also left its mark on the city, with the iconic Teletubbies, filmed near Stratford, bursting onto screens nationwide.
Charity was a major theme, with a special Comic Relief edition of 'Gladiators' filmed at the NIA, raising over £27 million. The event, broadcast on 14th March, featured stars like Zodiac and Lightning. Comedian Jasper Carrott also launched his Christmas Cracker at the NEC in aid of the NSPCC and Birmingham Children's Hospital on 23rd October.
Cityscapes and Cultural Landmarks
The photographs reveal a cityscape on the cusp of change. The Forward statue stood in Centenary Square, years before it was damaged by fire in 2003. The Bull Ring shopping centre was captured on 28th January, and the bustling Spaghetti Junction on 6th March. Cultural spots like the Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace and the newly opened Floosie statue in Victoria Square were documented. Even the launch of a new 'user-friendly' number 33 bus in Dale End was recorded, highlighting the era's transport updates.
Other notable moments included Formula One driver Damon Hill launching the new TWR Arrows car at the NEC on 9th January, and Terry Wogan hosting the Eurovision Song Contest draw at the NIA with the previous year's winner, Katrina, on 13th November. The Clothes Show at the NEC in December, featuring Holly 'Hotlips' Samos, rounded off a year that encapsulated Birmingham's role as a hub for national events, collective emotion, and everyday life.
