Homegrown hero David Batty returned to the Whites from Newcastle United for £4.4 million. Manager David O'Leary wanted the midfielder to provide bite and experience for his youthful side. Elsewhere the discovery of a suspicious package in Leeds city centre forced the evacuation of shoppers and staff. Fundraising drives and charity initiatives also dominated the news agenda. This was Leeds in December 1998. Is it a city you remember? READ MORE: Leeds in December 1995 - 14 stories making then news LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
1. Leeds in December 1998
Staff at Roundhay Park's Tropical World decided on a name for a baby Marmoset monkey who was nursed back to health after his mother died. Keepers picked the name Mogwai, chosen by nine-year-old Annie Oldfield from Middleton. Photo: Mel Hulme
2. Leeds in December 1998
Christmas arrived early for this lucky Sainbury's customer. Manager of the Moor Allerton store Paul Robinson (left) handed over a new Peugeot 306 to Arnold Abrams. His name was randomly selected from more than 2,000 entries for the car draw.
3. Leeds in December 1998
Pupils at John Jamieson School playing in the school's newly-renovated playground.
4. Leeds in December 1998
Former Leeds United star Vinne Jones was back in the city to open the new Alldays food store on Otley Road at Adel. Photo: James Hardisty
5. Leeds in December 1998
Members of charity Caring for Life slept out overnight on the steps of Leeds Town Hall along with 100 others to raise funds to help the homeless. Pictured, from top to bottom, are Sue Hoey, Brain Batley, Lis Wilcox and Daniel Vazquez.
6. Leeds in December 1998
Santa and Rudolf hitch a lift during a party at Carlton Barracks in Leeds with (L-R) Michelle Clenand and Chris Cardiss, and Capt Vaughan Westbrook. The Officer Training Corps organised the Christmas party for the children. Photo: Matt Griggs/UNP