Thousands expected at gorge celebrations

This is the stunning sight of an image of the Taj Mahal being flashed onto the side of a building to mark the glorious start of the fifth Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Festival.

A film focusing on the heritage of the area which included a montage of other World Heritage sites - including the Pyramids and the Great Wall of China - was screened onto the side of a building as part of the festival launch last night.

Paul Gossage, director of marketing at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, said the gorge looked "spectacular" during the celebrations.

Thousands of people were expected to continue to flock to the birthplace of industry today and tomorrow to take part in a range of other events. Among the attractions in Ironbridge today will be a Victorian funfair, village fete and street market.

Visitors will be able to learn more about the area and its role as the "The Birthplace of Industry", through talks, displays, and guided heritage walks.

There will also be a firework display at 8pm against the back drop of the Iron Bridge. Tomorrow, more celebrations will take place at Maws Craft Centre in Jackfield, where there will be food and craft stalls, displays and entertainment.