A to Z of Leeds: The Leeds hotel known as 'The Imp'

There are many reasons for this bold claim, from the people who've called this place home, to the history of the region, the developments underway and the talent and creativity we see on a daily basis. Here, we go through the alphabet to give you some reasons to be proud.

I IS FOR IMPERIAL HOTEL

The Imperial Hotel boasted an 80 year history on Briggate before it closed on Saturday, March 11, 1961, after which it was demolished.

It is claimed the hotel’s last night was a raucous affair by all accounts, with many of its past guests booking in to experience its final night.

The hoteI was known, affectionately, as ‘The Imp’ and it had been managed by Philip James for the previous 21 years.

It was a favourite of wartime troops but was also patronised by the big names of theatre including Peter Brough, Bobby Howes, Billy Danvers Scot, Whaley Revell, Bunny Doyle and Albert Modley.

Leeds Corporation tried to prevent its demolition but Leeds clothiers Montague Burton Ltd, which owned the hotel, appealed and the Government sided with them at a public inquiry on March 31, 1960.

They wanted to redevelop the site, on Briggate, Burton’s Arcade and Trinity Street as a shopping destination.

Today the entire site has been swallowed by Trinity Leeds shopping centre.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE IMPERIAL HOTEL? Share your memories with Andrew Hutchinson via email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPNMORE A TO Z OF LEEDS:

A: How Arthur Aaron became a war hero .

B: Ivy Benson - Leeds's own pioneer of 'girl power'

C: The curious custom of Leeds Town Hall clock

D: The city landmark made of 18 million bricksE: Briggate's Empire TheatreF: The Farnley Wood Plot

G: The suffragette who valiantly fought for women’s right to voteH: The vicar who helped rebuild Leeds Parish Church

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Laura Collins