Boots for the Bairns campaign helped provide much needed boots and warm socks for youngsters children across the city during the 1920s and 1930s. Over a period of six months from November 1921, more than over 12,000 pairs of boots and warm socks had been donated. These photos showcase the fundraising efforts of the campaign over the years. They 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: Amazing pictures show life in Leeds during the 1920s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Boots for the Bairns
Members of the Leeds Sylvians strike a pose for the camera. The amateur theatrical group performed at Leeds Grand Theatre in November 1938. Proceeds were donated to Boots for the Bairns.
2. Boots for the Bairns
November 1923 and a smartly-dressed man is outside the monkey enclosure at Roundhay Park Zoo, Canal Gardens. A box collecting money for 'Sooty's Appeal' was part of the Boots for Bairns campaign. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
3. Boots for the Bairns
February 1927 and a matinee luncheon was held at the Queens Hotel in honour of the 'Boots for Bairns' campaign. A special cake in the shape of a pair of boots had been created in celebration of the campaign's achievements. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
4. Boots for the Bairns
The Mayor of Morley, Coun Harold Smith, is seen with recipients of the Boots for the Bairns appeal in 1936, proudly showing off their new shoes. Photo: David Atkinson Archive, www.leodis.net
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