Black Country’s favourite dog breed celebrated with re-opening of museum

It’s one of the Black Country’s favourite dog breeds – and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is being celebrated with the re-opening of a museum at a new venue.

18849306 — Keith Jackson and Christie with a model from the display

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Heritage Centre first opened in 2005 at Wednesbury’s Old Post Office with the aim of disproving the breed’s stereotype as ferocious and dangerous. But having been asked to leave the premises two years ago the charity behind the centre was forced to move the exhibits into storage.

Bosses searched desperately for a new home and last year struck a deal to lease a former health centre in Albert Street, Wednesbury. After renovating the building so it complied with the required standards to welcome visitors, the exhibition has now reopened to the delight of its bosses.

18849309 — Chairman Paul Baker, front, with committee members

Gillian McDermott, member of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Exhibition Group, said:“The project is all about changing perceptions of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Whenever there is a dog fight or an attack involving biting they always seem to use the worst picture they can find.

“Usually the dog is actually sneezing and therefore showing all its teeth. To be truthful they are a push over. They are a real family dog. It is only when they are put in the wrong hands there are problems.”

STAFFIE 6 SL 20 — Gillian McDermott and Greg Hedges with mascot Watchman V

The exhibition contains books from Australia and badges from the Czech Republic. There is also a collection of 145 copies of The Stafford magazine dating back to the 1940s. The exhibition will open most Saturdays and at other times by appointment.