It's official: Leeds United are returning to the Premier League next campaign after a short one-year stint back in the Championship this season, and we firmly believe they don't just deserve but need to be there.
No one is exactly going to argue with us on that front, but we still think we've got a point regardless, so just humour us for a while...
Leeds did their best to give a top-flight account of themselves thanks to a 6-0 thrashing of Stoke City this Sunday, with Sheffield United's narrow 2-1 defeat to Burnley at Turf Moor securing promotion for both the Clarets and the Whites.
However, what the game and the jubilant scenes outside Elland Road and across the city proved beyond the performances alone over the last nine months is that the English first division massively misses out when Leeds aren't in it. Case and point:
Not only does it go without saying that their footballing heritage and history when it comes to silverware are fitting of a club in the Premier League, but when you see scenes like this before a promotion has even been fully secured, you know it feels right.
Yes, lots of Leeds supporters got there early because, just like the players inside the stadium'sBremner Suite, they had every faith they were going up.
It's by no means been a perfect season from Daniel Farke's side, but the German coach once again proved he is more than capable of navigating what is one of the most competitive leagues on the planet.
They showed their appreciation in spades outside the gates over in Beeston too, as fans cheered in tune as the 48-year-old pumped his fists following a defiant navigation through the crunch period, which saw them avoid the dreaded playoff scrap.
You don't get many crowds as good as the south and Don Revie stand at their best these days:
Not only is the magic of a one-club town something truly special and incomparable when it comes to atmosphere and football fanaticism, but they're knitted into the very fabric of local communities and help create whole generational memories.
In fact, the power of these specific footballing cultures and sport-obsessed locales is often overlooked, not only because of how influential they can be in literally dragging a team across the finish line, but in terms of the 'greater good' of the game, for lack of a better phrase.
We all know the significance of 'the twelfth man' and how the roar from the stands can quite literally suck goals in, but for places like Newcastle, Sunderland, Cardiff and so on, they can quite literally determine the mood of an entire population, meaning that they also bring that passion, intensity and level of stakes to the ground.
You already know that the likes of Manchester United and other rival clubs, even if the animosity may have waned of late, are absolutely licking their lips at the idea of having the old foes back in the Prem - and you get that in absolute spades with Leeds.
Just look at what it means:
Whether you were outside the stadium or knee-sliding at home, it was a day to remember. (Credit: Supplied/@focusleeds_ via Instagram)
We're still a little ways off finding out whether The Peacocks will come strutting into the Premier League as champions, with plumage spread loud and proud, but it almost doesn't matter that much.
Of course, Leeds fans will be hoping a title will serve as the cherry on top of the icing that has been this comeback season, but getting back where they belong and (if more people were honest with themselves) where plenty of opposition fans prefer them.
More importantly, a few nervy wobbles towards the latter part of the season aside, the level of displays we've seen from United suggests that they stand a better chance of staying up and avoiding the same yo-yo pattern of many other clubs.
The Prem without Leeds just isn't the same, if you ask us, so here's hoping they establish a stronger foothold this time around.
Let's watch last weekened's bedlam back, shall we?
Nearly twenty years on, Legally Blonde still reminds audiences never to underestimate themselves.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about a musical that embraces joy without irony, and the 2026 touring production of Legally Blonde at the Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House does exactly that.
This sparkling revival captures all the charm, humour, and heart that has made the show a modern musical theatre favourite, proving that Elle Woods' story has lost none of its appeal.
Adapted from the beloved 2001 film, Legally Blonde remains far more than a fluffy feel-good comedy. Nearly twenty years after its Broadway debut, its themes of self-worth, perseverance and refusing to be underestimated continue to resonate, making the show's message feel as relevant as ever.
Image: Supplied
From the opening strains of 'Omigod You Guys!', the production establishes an infectious energy that rarely lets up.
Much of its success lies in Leah Hill's exhilarating choreography, which is packed with vitality and executed with astonishing precision. The ensemble attacks every routine with unwavering commitment, and the athletic feat that is 'Whipped Into Shape' proves a particular highlight. I will forever question how nobody appears remotely out of breath in this number.
Images: Supplied
At the centre of it all is Amber Davies, who proves herself perfectly suited to the role of Elle Woods. Effortlessly capturing the character's optimism and determination, Davies delivers a performance that goes far beyond the familiar blonde stereotype.
She brings warmth, vulnerability and impeccable comic timing to the role, ensuring that Elle's transformation from heartbroken sorority president to accomplished law student feels both authentic and genuinely moving.
Image: Supplied
Vocally, Davies is superb. She tackles the demanding score with apparent ease, bringing emotional depth to the title number whilst delivering a thrilling rendition of 'So Much Better'. Her natural comic playfulness shines throughout, making both performer and character utterly irresistible.
Equally memorable is Karen Mavundukure's delightful turn as Paulette Bonafonté. Bringing warmth and comic flair in abundance, she proves herself as one of the evening's standout performers. Her heartfelt rendition of 'Ireland' beautifully captures the character's hopes and insecurities, while her scenes with Kyle provide some of the night's biggest laughs.
What makes Legally Blonde so enduring is its sincerity. Rather than making Elle Woods the punchline, the show celebrates kindness, female friendship and self-belief. In a world often quick to judge, there is something deeply appealing about a story that wears its optimism so proudly.
Legally Blonde is running until 13 June at Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House and you can grab your tickets here.
Five of the best new openings in Leeds recently – from ice bath cafes to listening bars
Clementine Hall
It's been a brilliant couple of months for new openings in Leeds.
We don't know about you, but we think our city is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment.
There's been a flurry of new spots opening up, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Domo
Tower works, 2 Globe Rd, Holbeck, LS11 5QG
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Introducing Domo, an independent restaurant born in Sheffield that is loved by many for its delicious food, inviting atmosphere and stellar service.
Run by Raffaele Busceddu and Sarah May Elliott, Domo serves a range of traditional Sardinian specialities that aren't often seen outside the island, all made entirely in-house.
Located right on the water's edge, we've got a feeling this is going to be our go-to spot this summer for long lunches fuelled by spritzes.
Also born in Sheffield, this one's for the matcha lovers and we know there's a lot of you. Think iced banana bread matcha, superfood smoothies and refreshing acai bowls served in a super cool setting.
Kontrast
84-86 Railway Street, Saxton Gardens, LS9 8HB
Images: The Hoot Leeds
After already making a big name for themselves over in Manchester, Kontrast has brought its popular sauna and ice bath cafe concept over to Leeds. Located under the railway arches, Kontrast features two traditional saunas, one infrared sauna, and four ice baths, each varying in temperature between three and 13 degrees. It's the perfect space to enjoy solo or with a group of like-minded wellness-loving people.
Scott and his partner have opened the coolest, 70's inspired record bar that is full of his massive record collection alongside a carefully curated cocktail menu with a twist. With the best view of Sunny Bank Mills, Pardon Me is just the most chilled out place to watch the world go by whilst sipping on a coffee or a glass of wine whilst hearing everything from hip hop and soul to deep house, and disco. We loved our visit and we know you will too.
We all know and bloody love Silver's Deli over in Bramley, but now they’ve branched out to Farsley and opened the wonderful their very own bakery which is already a sell-out.
The all-new neighbourhood bakehouse is slinging out the likes of homemade focaccia, buttermilk brownies, sausage rolls, cookies, tiramisu and, of course, the ever-so-famous sandos but this time in homemade, fluffy focaccia.
Danny Jones -
22nd April 2025 
