I recently had a book published about the history of Leeds, a children’s book. During my research I came across all sorts of legends and tales about Leeds. My very favourite were stories about the four stone lions that guard Leeds Town Hall.

All of these stories begin with the lions coming to life. Some say that they come to life when the Town Hall clock chimes thirteen, some say it happens when the moon is at its fullest. Others claim the lions come to life at a time when their help is needed.

What do the lions do when they come alive?

First of all, they have a good stretch and yawn. I imagine that they might nod to each other in recognition. Perhaps they are the best of friends and give each other a ‘high paw’.

Most tales (or should that be tails?) about these lions say that they roam around Leeds centre, making sure that everything is as it should be. There is a difference of opinion about the people who may be in Leeds centre at the same time as these wandering lions – they are either frozen in time or they can’t see the lions because the lions are magic.

Some people say that the lions look for lost children in the city centre. When they find them, the lions return them to their parents. If this happens, do you think children will be able to see the lions? Children believe in magic.

There is also a story that the lions walk three times around the Town Hall. Although, I can’t find a reason as to why they would do this.

People who believe the lions come to life say that when the lions return to their position outside the Town Hall, they are never in the exact position they were before.

Of course, there are people who have claimed to see the lions actually moving. However, these seem to be people who have been out all night tasting the delights of the local beer.

If you look at pictures of the stone lions, you will see how magnificent they are – even though they are slightly weather worn. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if they really did come to life?