These fantastic photos celebrate the circus coming to Leeds down the decades. They feature publicity shots as well as images of the big top which are sure to evoke memories for a generation of circus fans. They are a mix from the YEP archive and others published courtesy of Leeds Civic Trust who stimulate interest in and care for the history and character of the city. Others are published courtesy of West Yorkshire Archive Service, which collects and looks after the unique documentary heritage of the region dating from the 12th century to the present day - more than 800 years of local history. It also runs Catablogue, an online blog dedicated to preserving the past, serving the present and protecting the future. READ MORE: The rocky road that took Leeds more than four decades to finish LOVE LEEDS LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook
5. Circus memories
Dutch trapeze artist, Ria Roeber, can be seen swinging from a crane 100ft above Wade Lane in Leeds city centre in December 1963. This was a publicity stunt for Billy Smart's circus. PIC: West Yorkshire Archive Service
Photo: West Yorkshire Archive Service
6. Circus memories
Another undated photo of Bertram Mills Circus on Woodhouse Moor. Have you noticed the elephant shaped balloon advertising the circus? PIC: Leeds Civic Trust
Photo: Leeds Civic Trust
7. Circus memories
Bertram Mills Circus from above Rampart Road at Woodhouse Moor with lots of people watching the festivities. In the middle is visible M Ambrose & Sons, Ice Cream Dealer's van. PIC: Leeds Civic Trust
Photo: Leeds Civic Trust
8. Circus memories
YEP snapper Laurie Mercer took this dramatically lit photo during a performance at Billy Smart's Circus on Woodhouse Moor in August 1960.
Photo: Laurie Mercer