Leeds spirit, creativity and culture will celebrate 400th year as a city

Plans for a year of celebrations to mark 400 years since Leeds was awarded its first Royal City Charter aim to capture the city's spirit, creativity and culture.

- by Laura Collins

Leeds West Indian Carnival is one of the highlights on the city's calendar.

(Photo: National World)

Next year will see Leeds reach its milestone, four centuries after King Charles 1 officially recognised the city as a self-governing borough, a decision which changed the course of the its history and laid the foundations for modern-day Leeds.

A report to Leeds City Council's executive board, which meets next week, details how key partners across the city are now working together to kickstart a programme of events and activities capturing the city's story.

Launching this November, the campaign will see residents, groups and organisations across the city invited to mark the prestigious occasion in their own way and showcase the best of Leeds and its vibrant and diverse communities.