It is the Leeds gem which has had a tough life with scars to prove it. Fire all-but destroyed Kirkgate Market on the night of December 13, 1975. The cause remains uncertain to this day - there were suggestions either of an electrical fault or an overturned paraffin lamp. Either way, the flames spread quickly through Europe’s largest covered market and some 150 stallholders fled for their lives. These photos tell the story of how the market bounced back over the 12 months after the blaze. READ MORE: The night Kirkgate Market was devastated by fire | Walk around Kirkgate Market during the 1980s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
13. Kirkgate Market
Do you remember these traders? Butcher Jack Williamson and fruiterer Alan Brown.
15. Kirkgate Market
Remember this Kirkgate Market trader? This is Maria Chardman pictured in August 1976.
16. Kirkgate Market
Outside the newly developed Kirkgate Market in August 1976. The 'Market Progress Report Board' can be seen in the centre of the photo.
17. Kirkgate Market
This is fruiterer Stanley Atack who went into the burning hall to rescue his day's takings which he immediately offered on loan to other traders who could not manage.
18. Enjoyed this gallery?
Share your memories of Kirkgate Market during the 1970s with Andrew.Hutchinson via email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN