‘Love of Leeds’ exhibition displayed at Leeds train station as celebration of resilience of the city and its people

The exhibition is a 225-metre celebration of the people, organisations and community groups in Leeds.

It showcases the individuals and groups on platform 16 at the station.

It was unveiled on Friday following a team of specialist installers working on the project for a week by using 22 digitally printed images installed on the backdrop of the platform.

Jude Palmer, creator of the exhibition, who has a passion for capturing moments with a journalistic approach, said: “Working with the team at Network Rail has been amazing.

“They’ve had such creative vision for this groundbreaking project and I feel really feel proud that this project is another creative way to give Leeds a voice and to shout about what it’s doing.

“The city’s DNA is made up of grit, boldness, creativity and passion and this is now clear for all to see at one of Britain’s busiest railway stations.”

Jude was the driving force behind this project, alongside Councillor Judith Blake, the leader of Leeds City Council.

They conceived the project together at a photographic exhibition by Jude about the Leeds Triathlon.

Judith Blake said: “Jude and I worked together on the Love of Leeds project which was a huge success.

“I am thrilled that some of the images taken will now be going into Leeds railway station.

“It will be a great boost for the city and it shows all who travel through it just what we are about."

The project aims to act as a reminder of hope and resilience to the city and its people and to celebrate everything which Leeds has to offer.

Anna Mulleady, who works for Network Rail in Leeds, said: “This year has been a really difficult one, so we were delighted to get involved in this project, which will improve the look and feel of the station and give passengers a much needed boost during these unprecedented times.

“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase all that is great about Leeds and we can’t wait for our customers to see it.”

The photographic project originally came about when Harrogate based photojournalist Jude set out on a creative journey at the beginning of 2019 to document insightful imagery which showcased what is happening in Leeds in sport, music, TV, arts, communities, culture, education, film and business.

Alistair Brownlee and Jamie Jones feature in the exhibition.

Alistair said: “As proud Leeds lads, Jonny and I sing the praises of Leeds whenever we can.

“It’s a great to be included here with so many special people from Leeds, all captured brilliantly by Jude.”

Jamie added: "It’s been an honour and a privilege to be recognised in some of the works which Jude has created in a catalogue of iconic people and landmarks in what is my favourite place in the world - Leeds.

"Leeds is my home, it’s where I have been able to fulfil my boyhood dreams and realise much of my potential.

“As a steward and a father in this city, it gives me no end of joy to see Jude's work celebrate - in timeless motion - the inspirational hearts and minds, of the city I call home."

Tom Riordan, Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, said: “There is no better way to sum up what’s best about Leeds than its people and no better time to do so than now.

“This will be a brilliant way to greet them and welcome them back to Leeds City Centre.”