These photos provide an intriguing glimpse into life in Leeds city centre during a decade dominated by the Second World War. They showcase a city coping with the trauma of conflict and determined to build back better with a proud community spirit. Landmarks featured include City Square, Leeds Civic Hall, Kirkgate Market, Leeds Bridge and Leeds Parish Church. Also in focus are well-known streets including Briggate, Kirkgate, The Headrow, Boar Lane, Commercial Street and Vicar Lane. 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: Nostalgic photos capture life around Leeds in 1940 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 in the 1940s
The junction of Albion Street in November 1946 and St Ann Street. All the shop windows have advertisements for 'Star', an amusement arcade and shooting gallery. Also in view is the factory entrance of Laufers, wholesale clothiers. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Leeds city centre in the 1940s
Commerical Street in April 1945. This view is at the junction with Bank Street. Field's cafe can be seen on the right opposite W. Wright jewellers shop. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Leeds city centre in the 1940s
Shops on Kirkgate in October 1948. They include W. & G. Scott Provision Merchant, and Quality Furnishers Ltd. The block was between the Fox and Grapes Yard and Crown Court. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Leeds city centre in the 1940s
Back George Street in October 1947. G. Thompson fruit salesman and Chadwick and Son fruit salesman are visible. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Leeds city centre in the 1940s
Looking north at the point where Infirmary Street (on the left) and Park Row (on the right) meet City Square in December 1943. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Leeds city centre in the 1940s
George Street in October 1947., Pictured are Holdswoth's coffee and cocoa house, L. Newman, paper bag manufacturer and G. Thompson, fruitier. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net