Lynda Ramsden, was crowned Miss Arndale in 1972, will head back to the Centre to join in the fun on Sunday, September 16.

Now Lynda Zajicek, she will be reunited with former Leeds United star Paul Reaney, who was photographed with the teen beauty queen 35 years ago.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Alan Taylor, will unveil a special plaque to mark the 40th anniversary, to a backdrop of performances by the Jemski Dance Group, Garforth Jubilee Band and local girl guides.

Customers will be able to trace the history of their centre thanks to an exhibition by the East Leeds History and Archaeology Society.

Back in 1967, the opening of the Arndale Centre caused something of a stir in the local and national media, as it was the first completely covered shopping centre in the north of England.

Its sleek, modern design and automatic sliding doors, based on malls across in the USA, had not been seen before in Britain.

Current centre manager, Steve Seymour, said: "The concept of a complete high street shopping experience under one roof was quickly hailed a triumphant success.

"The centre soon established itself as a central focus of the local community, featuring many exciting events in its first year, including a boat show, motor show and visits from a whole host of celebrities."

The ultra-modern look of Crossgates also attracted a certain amount of controversy, and it narrowly escaped a bomb plot and an arson attempt within its first 18 months. Yet such was the centre's popularity that the style was quickly copied, spreading like wildfire across the UK.

* Click here for a picture slideshow of memories celebrating 40 years of Crossgates Shopping Centre.