The Souvenir Seller

One Street: Market Square, Shipley #20

One for the journal today to mark the occasion of Bradford City's appearance at Wembley on Sunday for the League Cup Final against Swansea. There's no way I can claim to be a proper Bradford supporter but I will be giving them a huge cheer at the weekend in what must be the biggest occasion in the club's history. Their achievement in getting this far has been the stuff of fairy tales. No club from the fourth tier has ever got to a cup final before this year. It would actually be a brave man who would bet against them winning yet again against Premiership opposition. There is a sense that Destiny is on their side. The City of Bradford certainly deserves something to shout about. It would be amazing if they were able to bring the trophy home.

Mind you, Cup Final fever seemed to be distinctly absent from Market Square in Shipley this afternoon, just 3 miles from the home of the football club. It was perishing cold again and this poor guy was doing scant business at his little makeshift souvenir stall. You have to admire these traders. I find it astonishing that they can make any kind of living. It's sure not an easy life - especially in this weather. There weren't too many customers about, although he's just spotted one here. Unfortunately, the dog was more interested than its owner in the tat on offer.

I fear I may be coming down with something. I've been completely out of it in the office today. The feeling in my head has gone from 'floaty' to 'fuzzy'. I've not been able to achieve very much, which has been rather frustrating. Taking a break from the computer for a bit. It might have to be another early night.