Leeds Lifeboat Demonstration (1902)

Some splendid floats - and two lifeboats - parade through the streets of Leeds to raise funds for the lifeboat service.

This is one of three films made by Mitchell and Kenyon to record the spectacular Leeds lifeboat procession on 5 July 1902 - each apparently made for different showmen film exhibitors. This one was commissioned by Fred Woods, who presented 'animated pictures' at Leeds' Coliseum, and it captures many of the very varied floats, including a live bear and something almost as rare - a motor car.