The International Market has brought Bradford to life. There can be no doubt about that on the evidence of the first couple of days. The city centre has been thronging with people, the sun has shone for much of the time and the mood has been light-hearted.

This is just the sort of thing Bradford needs to put it on the regional map and bring in the visitors as well as lifting the spirits of the people who live here. Given the fun atmosphere, only a truly dedicated curmudgeon could fail to be cheered up by this vibrant event.

The "feelgood factor" has been tangible on the streets as the crowds have drifted from stall to stall, queued for the types of food that are not generally available here, listened to the bands and watched the street entertainers.

It is unfortunate that because of the regeneration work going on, parts of central Bradford are not at present looking their best. However, the overall impression visitors will take away with them surely will not be of barriers, cones and holes in the road but of funfair rides, jolly music, good-natured stallholders and an amiable, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

It remains to be seen what the impact will have been on Bradford's established businesses. Certainly the market has brought vastly more people into town than would otherwise have been the case. It is to be hoped that the regular traders have felt some immediate knock-on benefits.

Whether they have or not, they will certainly benefit in the long term from the boost this event will be giving to Bradford's image and the general economy.