1974 was a year that Leeds becomes a metropolitan borough and work continued on the city’s Inner Ring Road. It was also a 12 months that residents voted in not one, but two, General Elections. These wonderful photos, a mix from the YEP archive and others published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service, chart a year in the life of your city. READ MORE: 33 closed Leeds pubs which will stir fond memories for drinkers LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
7. Leeds in 1974
Looking west from Westgate showing the construction of Stage 3 of the Inner Ring Road under a light covering of snow. To the right, Telephone House in Westgate is visible and at the far left is Dunlop Rubber Co. Ltd., motor tyre manufacturers also in Westgate. Stage 3 of the Inner Ring Road was completed in February 1975. The photograph is taken from the old Police Headquarters, formerly Brotherton House on Westgate. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Leeds in 1974
J.L. Stainthorp's Cafe and Antiques and Curios shop on Main Street in Thorner. There is a petrol pump at the side of the building and a car parked on the road. Pictured in August 1974. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Leeds in 1974
One of the crowded classrooms in the infants department at Castleton Primary School in January 1974. Paint was peeling from the walls. Photo: YPN
11. Leeds in 1974
What am I bid for this potential Derby winner? The auctioneer (in shed) goes into action extolling the virtues of Lot 1 when the first greyhound sale was held at the Leeds track in September 1974. Nearly £15,000 changed hands as 100 greyhounds found new owners. The Elland Road racing team has been boosted as a result, for £2,500 was paid out for dogs which are to run at the track. Top-price of the auction which attracted 800 'customers', was 860 guineas paid by a Sheffield owner for Trekaventure. This 16-month old dog was one of over 40 brought from Ireland which topped 100 guineas. Photo: YPN
12. Leeds in 1974
Leeds City Station in November 1974. Pictured is George Cooper, who has retired as a chief supervisor with British Rail after nearly 50 years service. Photo: YPN