Leeds, sited in the heart of West Yorkshire, is the UK’s third largest city and is home to a community rich in history, ambition and achievement. As the financial, cultural and commercial heart of West Yorkshire, Leeds is a city essential to the global economic system. Although only a small borough for much of its existence, Leeds in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries became a key centre for the production and trading of wool. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, Leeds developed into a major industrial hub, extending its reach into engineering, printing, commerce, health and education. Iron foundries were among other industries of extreme importance.

The city then expanded, absorbing many of the surrounding villages and townships to become the urban city we see today. Combining cultural riches with strong transport and communication links, it continues to attract students, entrepreneurs and professionals, not only to visit, but often to relocate to this vibrant part of West Yorkshire. The authors have charted the area’s great past, and the enormous changes that have taken place, through a selection of fascinating and inspiring old postcards.