And it's more than our exceptional location at the heart of the West Midlands and at the hub of the UK's transport network.

All of these things help to make Sandwell special but, above all, it is the people who make Sandwell exceptional. Around here we're down to earth, hard working, welcoming and ready to adapt to the new challenges of a new kind of society for the 21st Century and beyond.

In common with the rest of Britain, fewer of our people now work in manufacturing. Even so, more than a third of jobs are still rooted in the sector – around twice the national average. These days, more than half of Sandwell's jobs are in the service sector, compared to over 75% nationally.

Our communities reflect modern Britain's diversity. Over 280,000 of us live in six major towns and scores of smaller communities that make up Sandwell. 15% of us come from ethnic minorities, adding to the diversity of life in the region.

In recent years, massive investment has gone into Sandwell. Just as we were in the heyday of British manufacturing, Sandwell is once again becoming a hive of commercial, technological and business activity.

With a host of sports, cultural, heritage, leisure and retail attractions to keep you entertained, Sandwell has always got something to offer everyone – from local families to tourists and short stay business visitors.

So welcome to Sandwell. It's the place to be in the West Midlands. It's a rewarding location in which to grow. It's a great community with a great future.

This Guide is your introduction to one of Britain's most vibrant communities, packed with potential. We hope you'll enjoy making the most of all we have to offer.