Bettys arrived in the city at the turn of the decade having already forged a reputation across God's own county. It would enjoy a 40 year relationship with customers before eventually leaving the city. Its Lands Lane cafe closed on March 30, 1974. Announcing the closure, Betty’s Cafe Ltd., said: “In some ways this desirable location has become a disadvantage because rentals have risen enormously. We have to face the fact that the site is too expensive for a cafe. The decision to close at this particular time has been brought about by another consideration, that of public safety in case of fire.” Enjoy these rarely-seen photos charting its history in Leeds. READ MORE: 34 of the best photos take you back to Leeds in 1974 LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Bettys in Leeds
The coffee shop offered a more informal atmosphere - which was favoured by a new generation of customers. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
8. Bettys in Leeds
The stylish Street Lane cafe was a popular haunt throughout the 1960s but closed in 1971 as the business looked to streamline its operations. | Bettys Photo: Bettys
9. Bettys in Leeds
Bettys closed in Leeds city centre in 1974. | Peter Brown Photo: Peter Brown
10. Bettys in Leeds
In the words at the time of chairman Victor Wild the reason for the closure was simply that "we couldn't make it pay." | YPN Photo: YPN
11. Bettys in Leeds
The price of operating in such large premises in the city centre had risen to such an extent that the cafe was no longer profitable. | jpimedia
12. Bettys in Leeds
Another reason for the closure was that, due to both its size and location, Bettys Leeds could not easily be altered to adhere to new fire regulations that were put in place in 1973. | YPN Photo: YPN