Bettys arrived in the city at the turn of the decade having already forged a reputation across God's own county. It would enjoy a 40 year relationship with customers before eventually leaving the city. Enjoy these rarely-seen photos charting its history in Leeds. LIFE IN LEEDS THROUGH THE DECADES: 1920s | 1930s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
7. Bettys in Leeds
The stylish Street Lane cafe was a popular haunt throughout the 1960s but closed in 1971 as the business looked to streamline its operations. Photo: Bettys
8. Bettys in Leeds
Bettys closed in Leeds city centre in 1974. Photo: Peter Brown
9. Bettys in Leeds
In the words at the time of chairman Victor Wild the reason for the closure was simply that "we couldn't make it pay."
10. Bettys in Leeds
The price of operating in such large premises in the city centre had risen to such an extent that the cafe was no longer profitable.
11. Bettys in Leeds
Another reason for the closure was that, due to both its size and location, Bettys Leeds could not easily be altered to adhere to new fire regulations that were put in place in 1973.
12. Bettys in Leeds
in January 1974 Bettys claimed that if their own prices had risen to the same extent as the rent they would be charging two pounds and 60 pence for a pot of tea. In 1973 the price for a pot of tea was nine and a half pence.