The West Midlands boasts some seriously talented exports, from movie stars and musicians to world class football players
Recently, we’ve had a look at the famous faces - actors, musicians and even politicians - who were raised in and around Birmingham. Now, we’ve decided to take a look at the famous celebrities who were born in Smethwick.
Many famous people were also born and grew up in the area which has plenty of history. For example, the world’s oldest working engine, the Smethwick Engine, was made by Boulton & Watt, and originally stood near Bridge Street in the town. It is now at Thinktank, the new science museum in Birmingham.
Actors, sportspeople and legendary musicians all come from the Sandwell town. With this in mind, we’ve taken a look at the most famous people who were born and bred in Smethwick.
1. Christine McVie
Late Fleetwood Mac star Christine McVie was born in the English Lake District village of Bouth, but she grew up in the Bearwood area of Smethwick, attending college in and around Birmingham. The band’s best-known hits include Dreams, Go Your Own Way and Everywhere, and their 1977 album Rumours cemented their fame with hits such as Second Hand News and You Make Loving Fun.
2. Dame Julie Walters
Harry Potter star Dame Julie Walters and her family lived at 69 Bishopton Road in the Bearwood area of Smethwick when she was growing up. The icon is the recipient of four British Academy Television Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, two International Emmy Awards, and a Golden Globe Award. Walters has twice been nominated for an Academy Award Photo: Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images
3. Liza Goddard
Born in Smethwick, Liza Goddard is best best known for her work in the 1970s and 1980s. She starred in the British shows including Take Three Girls, The Brothers and Minder. She currently lives near Dereham, Norfolk and also works with the RSPCA, amongst other charities.
4. Ken Wharton
Ken was a British racing driver from Smethwick, England. He competed in off-road trials, hillclimbs, and rallying, and also raced sports cars and single-seaters. He participated in a total of 15 World Championship Grands Prix, from which he scored three championship points.