Strikes, late trains and deserted platforms. That was a timetable of change of challenges for rail passengers at Leeds City Station during the 1980s. The decade started with strikes leaving deserted platforms and trains on the tracks to nowhere. The middle of the 1980s signalled embarrassment for British Rail officials and representatives of the West Yorkshire Passengers Transport Authority. British Rail’s newest flag flier - the prestigious ‘sprinter’ train - limped into Leeds City Station on its Yorkshire debut in early 1986, an embarrassing 22 minutes late. Officials paced up and down platform 3 looking at their watches as the train failed to appear. It was due to take VIPs on a tour of West Yorkshire rail network and publicity information proclaimed: “The quicker way from here to there in West Yorkshire.” This wonderful collection of photos, plucked from the Yorkshire Evening Post archive, showcases the changes and challenges faced by commuters. READ MORE: 12 lost Leeds railway stations you may remember LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Leeds City Station
Strike time. Some of the guards and railmen who turned up for work at Leeds City Station in June 1982. | YPN Photo: YPN
8. Leeds City Station
The 7.35am Leeds to Skipton train leaves Leeds City Station in July 1982. | YPN Photo: YPN
9. Leeds City Station
Way in... the entrance to Leeds City Station on Boar Lane with the introduction of a one way system in February 1983. | YPN Photo: YPN
10. Leeds City Station
Carl Waite and Andrea Bailey admire the mural at Leeds City Station in June 1986. | YPN Photo: YPN
11. Leeds City Station
March 1986 and first class rail passengers were set to benefit from a plush new Pullman lounge. British Rail issued this photo of the lounge which was being opened as part of a £1 million package of improvements at the station. | Third Party Photo: Third Party
12. Leeds City Station
May 1985 and councillors were calling for major improvements to Leeds City Station to cut accidents risks and make rail travel easier for disabled people. | YPN Photo: YPN