A boy is pictured riding a trades bike at the junction of York Road and North Street while two out of focus vehicles provide an almost eerie atmosphere. This was Leeds in 1936, the year of the Three Kings. George V died early in the year which was followed by the accession of his son Edward VIII to the throne and his subsequent abdication, resulting in the accession to the throne of his younger brother George VI, previously Albert, Duke of York. Closer to home plans were revealed for a series of new roads and widenings across the city and its suburbs. 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: Life in Leeds city centre during the 1930s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
7. Leeds in 1936
The corner of Kirkgate and Briggate in March 1936. Retail properties shown include Cyprus Cafe on Kirkgate; Stead and Simpson, shoes; Hitchen and Sons, drapers; Richard Shops, ladies wear; Smarts, house furnishers; Dean and Dawson, travel agents; The Victory Hotel. The Victory Hotel clock shows that it is 2.50pm. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Leeds in 1936
A sketch of Westgate in March 1936 showing a proposed new road. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Leeds in 1936
The junction of Cookridge Street amd Woodhouse Lane in May 1936. A large poster on the wall in the centre advertising Weavers shirt shop, at no.65 Woodhouse Lane. Business of Alfred Weaver, display of goods in windows. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Leeds in 1936
J.H. Awmack Ltd, glass and china dealer on The Headrow in May 1936. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Leeds in 1936
A view looking towards Centenary Street on to Municipal Buildings in December 1936. The building was designed by George Corson and when it opened in 1884 was home to various Civic departments, Police department, Library and Art Gallery (opened in 1888). Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Leeds in 1936
Kirkgate, where Cross York Street passes under the LNER viaduct, in April 1936. Two men in cloth caps and over coats are standing in front of free standing advertising hoarding. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net