A Black Country-born writer and broadcaster has launched a revised version of 'The Crystal Canal'; a guided walk along the towpath of the Stourbridge Canal that examines the area's glass industry.

Graham Fisher, MBE, has reimagined the book which was first compiled by the Royal Geographical Society and was based on Graham’s own book 'Jewels on the Cut', first published in 2010.

Working alongside the Society, Graham has assisted in a complete revamp of the walk, which takes into account the major developments since the original, including towpath improvements and the creation of the new White House Cone museum of glass at the canalside in Wordsley.

Fisher is now based on the Welsh borders, but regularly returns to the Black Country, and specialises in inland waterways with an interest in glass. He is a member of the West Midlands Waterways Partnership  and is a Trustee of the British Glass Foundation. The walk is a free download and there are also facilities for audio and hard copy download at the Discovering Britain website. Graham said:

"The Crystal Canal is an easy towpath walk suitable for anyone, including those of restricted mobility, that highlights the majesty of the Stourbridge Glass industry at its height and from the perspective of an industrial canal that is surprisingly rural.

"I am delighted that my colleagues at the Royal Geographical Society have kindly updated the guide in recognition of all of the exciting developments since the original."

Caroline Millar, Discovering Britain Project Manager added:

"We are delighted to work with Graham in updating this walk. The Crystal Canal is fascinating journey into Britain’s industrial heritage and a great example of a place packed with surprising stories.

"Whether you are familiar with Stourbridge glass or totally new to the Black Country, there is something on this walk for everyone to enjoy.’

The Society and Graham have also worked together on other collaborations around Birmingham and the Black Country, all of which can be viewed by following the links and guidance on the Discovering Britain website.