Artist brings historic Leeds United shirts back to life in stunning celebration of past colours

For Leeds United fans of all ages there will be a certain Whites strip which they hold dear to their heart.

From the Yorkshire Evening Post sponsored 1992 First Division title-winning shirt under Howard Wilkinson to the memorable yellow colours of David O'Leary's young charges storming across Europe in the Champions League, Leeds kits evoke memories of a treasured moment or a favourite player from years gone by.

Artist Terry Kneeshaw has brought a number of those famous Elland Road shirts back to life.

A collector's item - "Leeds Shirts - A Peacocks Collection" - has seen the 62-year-old paint 16 of the club's past shirts for fans to enjoy right up to this season's centenary version.

"That's how you see them," Kneeshaw told the YEP.

"You see the player in the shirt, you really do. I just thought I'd have a go and it's taken off. You just think to yourself how many World Cup's do I have left in me? So I'm just enjoying myself and doing something I love.

"Football is a love hate relationship like with most people. It's just a passion. I never realised that sponsors weren't on shirts until the 1980s, so I've picked out ones which add character and hopefully some memories - be it good or bad.

"What I think the most beautiful thing about all this is that generally when you put something out there to do with the game you get heated aggression, but with this I've had such lovely feedback.

"It's been absolutely off the scale."

Kneeshaw, though, does have a strong Leeds connection and admits he was pushed into painting the Whites shirts by friends who support the club.

His son, Wilson, is also a former Thorp Arch academy product.

Wilson's career has taken him from Darlington - his local side - to Sacramento in California via Romania and back home to the North East once again.

And it was at home where the idea began.

"Darlington are forever doing fundraising," Kneeshaw continued.

"So I painted a couple of things for them to raise some money and one was a football shirts piece. Before you knew it, I had one hundred printed and all the money went to the football club.

"I also did one for Bury when they were kicked out of the leagues. The fans were incredible.

"After that it's just spiralled and whoever has shouted loudest I've just tried to do one. We all know how much supporters love their clubs so it's a joy to do.

"I've a connection to Leeds through my son so it's a pleasure. A great football team, with some great colours."

You can find more information here on Terry's website and click here to view the full collection.