The cause of the blaze on Saturday, December 13, 1975, remains uncertain to this day - there were suggestions either of an electrical fault or an overturned paraffin lamp. Either way, the flames spread quickly through Europe’s largest covered market and some 150 stallholders fled for their lives. These photos from the YEP archive showcase the devastation and the aftermath of the blaze which could not kill the spirit of the market or its traders, many of whom were back on their feet within days. Determined not to be beaten, traders crammed into whatever space they could find in undamaged sections of the market, mainly on the Vicar Lane side. READ MORE: Walk around Kirkgate Market during the 1980s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
13. December 1975
A policeman looks at the extent of the damage in this atmospheric photo. | jpimedia
16. December 1975
Stunned traders arrive the following morning to a scene of devastation. | jpimedia
17. December 1975
Devastated traders and shoppers are left shocked by the extent of the damage. | jpimedia
18. December 1975
Despondent Audrey D'Souze, who had a curio stall in Kirkgate Market, gloomily surveys the ruins. | jpimedia