About the Collection
A Lifelong Connection
My association with Bradford City began over sixty years ago during childhood, influenced by my father, who was a dedicated Bradford City supporter. At that time, many supporters alternated between attending matches at Bradford City and Bradford Park Avenue.
My earliest memory of Valley Parade involves the practice whereby turnstile operators permitted my father to pass me over the tur to watch matches free of charge at Bradford City—a courtesy not extended at Bradford Park Avenue, where admission for children required payment. This early experience established my longstanding affinity for Bradford City, which continues to this day.
Currently, four generations of my family—my wife, son, and grandson—hold season tickets, reflecting our enduring support for the club.
Building the Collection
Approximately twenty years ago I decided that I wanted to collect something Bradford City related. I found that metal pin badges appealed as they were small and didn't take up much space. I initially thought there may be 50 to 100 badges in existence how wrong could I be!
My collection has since expanded to over 2,600 badges and continues to grow.
Giving Back to the Club
In 2008, I approached the club with a proposal to produce Bradford City match badges, with profits directed back into club funds. Over eight years, through the production of various Bradford City-related badges, I contributed over £20,000 to Bradford City AFC.
One significant project involved the creation of large-format Decade badges, each representing a specific season from the club's inception in 1903 through to 2016, offering an historical catalogue of the club's fortunes on a season-by-season basis.
Additionally, I produced commemorative Fire Disaster badges, with all proceeds donated to the Bradford Burns Unit (PSBRU).