The Golden Cross

The following story is part of Memories of Wednesbury High Street, a collaboration between artists, Iain Armstrong and Jo Löki, involving participation from a variety of Wednesbury residents. You can look through the photographs while you listen to people’s stories. For more information on the project and to view more stories, visit here.

The Golden Cross

Leslie Smith was born into the pub trade in Birmingham; his parents were publicans. However, Les did an engineering apprenticeship and worked as an engineer for several years. Following redundancy in 1984, Les applied to Bass Mitchell & Butlers to become a publican. He was given The Golden Cross pub in Wednesbury where he was landlord until 1988. At that time, Les settled in Wednesbury and has lived in the area ever since.  
Les Smith recalls how he came to be landlord of The Golden Cross in 1984. He ran the pub until 1988 when it was closed for refurbishment. Les describes the pub as he remembers it. 
In the mid 1980s, The Golden Cross pool team were very successful. Les recalls what a great bunch of lads they were and how their dedication and skill was rewarded with many competition wins. 
Les shares a few stories about some of the local characters who were regulars at the pub. He remembers one particular visit from a local Staffordshire celebrity. 
In 1988 the pub was closed for renovations and Les left as the brewery’s plans were at odds with what the pub and locals needed. Les recalls this time and his fondness for the customers and friends he made whilst he was the landlord. 

ⓘ To see more, and to read captions, click on the photographs.

  • The Old Golden Cross c1920 (courtesy of Ian Bott)
  • The Old Golden Cross c1920
  • The Golden Cross c1970s
  • The Golden Cross (courtesy of Whatpub)
  • The Golden Cross Pool Team (Courtesy of Wayne Trinder)
  • The Golden Cross Pool Team (Courtesy of Wayne Trinder)

Images in this gallery were shared by project participants working with visual artist, Jo Löki.  They were collected, edited, adapted and digitised into photo-albums © Jo Löki / Memories Of Wednesbury High Street.  With special thanks to Wayne Trinder, Ian Bott and the Robert’s family who gave their time, access to personal collections and shared memories of Wednesbury High Street. Their vital contributions add to the conversations around Wednesbury’s rich heritage.