It showcases Leeds city centre from above in 1947 as well as on the ground with well-known landmarks and streets sharply in focus. This was a 12 months from which Leeds was recovering from ravages of war and features how entertainment – from cinemas to shops – provided welcome distraction for residents. The images are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: Historic postcards sent from Leeds with love LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Leeds city centre
The Odeon Cinema and The Headrow pictured in June 1947. The film showing is 'The late George Apley' and outside there are people meeting, there is a cinema doorman, newspaper sellers and two people talking to a policeman. On New Briggate number 12 Meesons, 14 Model Makers, 16 Mentels, 18a Chemists and 20 Pitman's College, can be seen. The cinema opened as the Paramount in 1932 and became the Odeon in 1940. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Leeds city centre
Park Square with Leeds Town Hall in the background pictured in July 1947. Running across the centre are Georgian buildings situated in Park Square North and at the right edge those in Park Square East. The square appears to have unmade paths, sparse grass and mature trees. Nowadays, the buildings are restored and the square is laid out with paths, flower beds and seating. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Leeds city centre
Shops on Meadow Road in the city centre pictured in July 1947 plus Hobsons Court. Mann's Printers (Leeds) Ltd. on left. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Leeds city centre
Shows Lewis's department store on the corner of The Headrow and New Briggate in August 1947. 'Satisfaction Guaranteed' signs outside. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
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Share your feedback with Andrew Hutchinson via email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net