June 2, 1953, will be date stamped in the minds of a generation of people who came together to celebrate the coronation of Elizabeth II, a monarch who would go on to reign for 70 years. These photo memories showcase how the city was trimmed up for the special occasion and how local people celebrated in their communities. 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: Memories from when The Queen visited Leeds LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
7. Coronation of Elizabeth II
Coronation decorations on The Headrow, and entrance to the Victoria Arcade, which intersected Schofield's department store. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Coronation of Elizabeth II
Coronation decorations on Victoria Gardens outside the Central Library and Art Gallery on The Headrow. The Art Gallery has 'God Save the Queen' on the wall. Along the length of the garden, site scaffolding has been put up, which is supporting banners and crests. A platform has been built in the centre. Looking towards Cookridge Street the war memorial can be seen, with flags of St. George. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Coronation of Elizabeth II
A large model of a crown being pulled into place during preparations for the celebrations for the coronation. The view looks south-east to the junction with Copperfield View, and over fields towards Pontefract Lane. The lettering strung across the street probably reads "God Save The Queen". Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Coronation of Elizabeth II
Flats at Cavalier House, between East Street and Bow Street, decorated for the coronation. The flats were demolished after 1993 during road upgrading work on East street, but to keep the community that lived there together, the residents were re-housed in 36 new flats built less than a mile away on Easy Road. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Coronation of Elizabeth II
Bunting across the street, and a giant crown, above Copperfield Avenue, off Cross Green Lane, during celebrations for the coronation. Houses on Copperfield View can be seen on the right. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Coronation of Elizabeth II
Shops decorated on Lower Briggate to celebrate the coronation. These include Weaver to Wearer tailors and Gaskell & Chambers Ltd., bar fitters, on the left and John Dyson & Sons Ltd., clockmaker and jeweller, on the right. Tram no.197, a 'Horsfield' built 1930-31, is pictured on route 6 to Meanwood. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net