In 1940 Hunslet was home to thousands of workers who filled the busy factories of South Leeds. There were few facilities for recreation for the young before they joined the services. In the early days during the war and just after, Hunslet was the most heavily industrialized district of South Leeds.

Mills, chemical works and factories all contributed to the war effort and to the grime of cobbled streets and back-to-back houses They were dark days of dusk till dawn blackouts, air raid sirens, searchlights and reinforced cellars conditions were often grim, times were hard, family resources were as limited as personal aspirations.

As the 1950's approached social changes were taking place, which would challenge youth and community work. The great festival of Britain was celebrated with galas, dances, carnival parades, exhibitions and a club trip to London. In 1950 there was a grand 10th anniversary celebration at the club Christmas party. It was attended by the Lord Mayor of Leeds it was a milestone in the clubs history.

In 1960, Dr Wyllie, the clubs founder sadly died.

A local authority re-development programmed had commenced. It was to include the demolition of local housing and, eventually, the compulsory purchase by local authority of the Waterloo Road premises. Many families were re-housed in other areas and this effected membership figures for a while.

In response Hunslet Boys Club took on a wider community role, positive workers links were developed with allied agencies, schools and employers. The Club shared its strengths in joint projects such as Intermediate Treatment for Young Offenders and Duke of Edinburgh award activities. There was a steady intake of boys on referral from Social Services and the probation Service.

The money was raised and building of the new club commenced - it was to have a main hall and stage, gymnasium, activity and craft rooms, the Kirby chapel, changing rooms and storage space, girls lounge and facilities, a quiet study room as well as a lounge/common room. Outside was a floodlit play area with access to playing fields. And a caretaker's flat provided security for the premises.

By the early 80's there was general alarm at widespread inner city riots by disaffected youths.

The Secretary of State for the environment announced £95 million aid for inner cities.

Youth and community services considered their role in rebuilding relationships between the police and local communities and in working with young people in multi racial settings. The club was ideally located with the right facilities and infrastructure to make a telling impact on the local youth unemployment situation over and above the positive work already going on with existing members.

The 1990's got off to a flying start with a Jubilee Reunion. Fathers sons, uncles and cousins spanning the generations of membership came from far and wide to celebrate 50 years of the club.

When most other clubs were struggling to make ends meet, Hunslet after a full and comprehensive survey bravely embarked on a positive programmed of improvement and development.

The beginning of the 21st Century has seen the club continue to grow from strength to strength with the expansion and development of a programme of vocational training opportunities for young people during the day. Schools across the area were soon learning that the Club had the facilities and teaching staff to train young people in vital and varied work related skills such as car and bike mechanics, construction, hair dressing and beautician skills. Hundreds of pupils have been sent from schools to the club and gained invaluable accredited qualifications.