Mrs Fawcett and her husband had gone to great lengths to make their air raid shelter as comfortable as possible. The small space - measuring about 6'(1.80 metres) by 8'(2.40 metres) - had been wall-papered in a floral pattern and adorned with pictures. The table is covered by a cloth on which a vase of flowers is arranged. There are comfortable chairs and an electric light fitting. Cases, most probably containing gas masks can be seen hung on the wall, left. This shelter on Cardigan Avenue in Burley was one of many in Leeds inspected by the A.R.P. Committee and the chairman, Councillor H. W. Sellers, praised the couple in a report which appeared in the Yorkshire Evening News. The photo from 1940 is one of 23 charting the life in the life of Leeds and its residents played out against the backdrop of the Second World War. City centre landmarks are featured as well as memories from around the suburbs with Beeston, Crossgates, Middleton and Hunslet all in focus. The images are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. READ MORE: Watch - Secrets of Leeds Queens Hotel revealed including hidden tunnel LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
19. Leeds in 1940
Cantors fish & chip shop on Chapeltown Road in October 1940. Sign in window states Open business as usual during blackout. House on right appears to be selling cigarettes and chocolate through an open window. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
20. Leeds in 1940
Middleton Park Post Office on Middleton Park Avenue at the junction with Middleton Park Mount in September 1940. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
21. Leeds in 1940
St Mary's Hospital in October 1940. Originally workhouse for Bramley Union, situated off Green Hill Road. It was also used as a maternity hospital, then a unit for the elderly. In this view, sandbags which have burst can be seen. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
22. Leeds in 1940
Burmantofts Street Improvement Plan in December 1940. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
23. Leeds city centre
Albion Street in December 1940. Pictured is Tower Buildings, then C. Taylor, Motor Tyres and Accessories, with goods in shop window. A small brick structure with wooden door is also in view. Purpose unknown. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
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