British Restaurants - a name chosen by the then Prime Minister Winston Churchill - were communal kitchens created in 1940 during the Second World War to help people who had been bombed out of their homes, had run out of ration coupons or otherwise needed help. Leeds boasted restaurants in Burley, Holbeck, Sheepscar and in the Crypt of the Town Hall. Enjoy these photos, published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service, showcasing how Leeds helped feed a city. READ MORE: The Second World War bombing raids which brought death and terror to Leeds
1. November 1941
Gas cookers can be seen on the left wall of the British Restaurant in the Crypt of Leeds Town Hall. Still open in 1954 when others had closed. It finally closed in 1966. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
2. 1942
Rows of diners at the opening of the British Restaurant in the Crypt of the Town Hall. It was split into two sections, self service and the slightly more expensive waitress service. The same menus were offered in each. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
3. May 1942
Architects plan of the British Restaurant on Kirkstall Road. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
4. May 1942
Interior of the British Restaurant on Kirkstall Road. Taken during construction Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
5. May 1942
Exterior view of construction work of the British Restaurant on Kirkstall Road. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
6. May 1942
Architects plan of the British Restaurant sited in Leeds Town Hall, showing Calverley Street entrance. Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net