Crowds enjoy all the fun at Bradford City Park opening (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

it looks nice now it is finished - but i still don't think it is worth the money . . . something seriously wrong with the costings somewhere!

BabyDave wrote:
it looks nice now it is finished - but i still don't think it is worth the money . . . something seriously wrong with the costings somewhere!

Well the work did take a long time.

Have just come back.. was there all the time from 1pm nothing at all in the way of entertainment. or side shows... break dancing as the opening... sorry.. nothing at all for young children and families very.. very dissapointing..no master of ceremonies except a Radio 1 blast and the sound reverberating so not a word understood Not all Bradford is made up of 14 - 25 year olds was really looking forward to something special AND who 'opened' the Park? lots of people walking round thinking the same judging by those leaving alongside us.. What a lot of money on this project.. will it bring extra revenue for the shops in the city which are located in the top of town or in Forster Square Retail Park?

Does anyone know how the Odeon protest went?

Agree with Baby Dave, Is it worth all the money that has been spent on it. Especially as Bradford has to make cuts to everything else right now!!

The quality of Bradford Councillors has been notoriously bad for a number of years. Their incompetence has brought Bradford to its knees and their continuing lack of vision, integrity, and partisanship for their racial group, unfortunately means more of the same, City Park is a monument to their folly

SHODDY! late starting, not enough information telling people of timings.

As a resident of the metropolitan district of the City of Bradford for 27 years this is the busiest I have ever seen the city centre.
I truly hope that this heralds the city into the new era it so sorely needs.

It was a pretty impressive turnout today. A welcome change from the norm with a good range of activities, lots of people, and smiles all round!

Let's hope this is the start of something new for Bradford. Theres still a long way to go, but if the park is maintained well enough, and future events are hosted here, it should be a worthwhile investment.

Now let's see if this draws in a few more businesses to this vibrant city. The city council need to focus more on the real issues Bradford is facing, sort the gaping hole out, and invest more in jobs and trade!

Still an amazing day today and the weather was on our side, shows what Bradford has the ability to be, we just need to work towards it!

pjl20 wrote:
As a resident of the metropolitan district of the City of Bradford for 27 years this is the busiest I have ever seen the city centre. I truly hope that this heralds the city into the new era it so sorely needs.

yeah.. plenty of people there.. shame there's no decent shops.

Great turn out today, announcements had too much feed so could not be heard clearly, a more experienced team is needed to improve the performance. The acts were good be a bit disappointed about the failure to keep everyone informed as what was going on and when. A great opportunity missed was for a street market around the park and centenary square, after the failures of the past with such events the crowd was there in force today.

Did the ODEON protest go well anyone know??

What an absolute waste of money in this time of recession. Could have been put to better use either with the homeless or even used to try and rebuild part of what used to be a shopping centre. Last time I was in Bradford there did not seem to be many shops near the "Park"
Who on earth was behind this scheme and did all Bradfordians have a say in spending so much money or was it just the mindless few on the Council?

Did anyone see Reno wandering about?
You couldn't miss him, he was wearing big pink glasses & drooling from the mouth at the sight of all the people who came to see what all the fuss was about. ;-)

We're the shops full then, was it a bumper takings day, will it be replicated tomorrow and the day after and the day after that ad infinitum.

I think the best part of it was the buzz, never felt anything like it in decades in the City. There were people of all ages and races mingling and no hint of friction.

And yes the rest of the City centre was far busier than usual.

I know one swallow doesn't make a summer, but maybe the mirror pool will prove the skeptics wrong...

Just got back, I can't believe how many people turned up!
It was a fantastic event and the finale was spectacular! I'm a very proud Bradfordian today :)

Complete waste of money - 23Million for a mirror pool so that the council can graze upon their own narcissistic reflection. Not one new job , no one feeling better educated, people still struggling to make ends meet - well done for a load of tosh !

Odean demo - was great - loved the little eyes which 'said' - 'what about me, why have I been covered up' - the council need shooting !

CJones101 wrote:
Odean demo - was great - loved the little eyes which 'said' - 'what about me, why have I been covered up' - the council need shooting !

Well, a few hundred people, but no one seemed to be in charge and organising it.

CJones101 wrote:
Odean demo - was great - loved the little eyes which 'said' - 'what about me, why have I been covered up' - the council need shooting !

Well, a few hundred people, but no one seemed to be in charge and organising it.

Albion. wrote:
Does anyone know how the Odeon protest went?

A wasted effort and nothing like the support of previous demos, few people took notice and from a distance the lights on the Odeon looked part of the Pond show!

A perfect opportunity missed to create havoc and gain the headlines, the Odeon will likely end up a pile of rubble within weeks, and Odeon supporters had better come to terms with it.

What a brilliant night! Amazing! I'm shocked that even the most vilecof the T&A trolls can complain but I underestimated you.
The evening finale was amazing, wonderful, breath-taking. I am a very happy Bradfordians tonight.

Avro wrote:

Albion. wrote:
Does anyone know how the Odeon protest went?

A wasted effort and nothing like the support of previous demos, few people took notice and from a distance the lights on the Odeon looked part of the Pond show!

A perfect opportunity missed to create havoc and gain the headlines, the Odeon will likely end up a pile of rubble within weeks, and Odeon supporters had better come to terms with it.

not true - all the people near me (near the council hall) were pointing, laughing, noticing it and photographing it - I believe the point was well and truly made ! - so don't believe the hype - Bradford council , In Communities and T& A are all in cahoots - Time for the Odean to come centre stage, stop wasting OUR money on duck ponds !

Your right, a few comments I overheard was that the loons had landed, sorry but its only a matter of time and your cause seems lost.

A brilliant day, something for everyone. There were lots of activities for children which were along the bottom of Ivegate and the children were enjoying it. There were lots of children paddling in the mirror pool. The town itself was much busier. There was no trouble at the event. It showed the true spirit of the people of Bradford. I am a very proud Bradfordian today.

Absoloutbley amazing stuff in Bradford today. Never in my 30 years of living in Bradford have i seen so many people in the centre. The bars/cafes were packed to the rafters. If this city park brings back even 5% of the people that turned out today on a regular basis it is well worth the investment. Well done for once Bradford Council

Smoke and mirrors...

It cost £34m and not £24m

Well at least I know where to go to when I have no money in my pocket as I have no job for a quick wash...and give my clothes. A good wash....give Bradford another 5 years and the cronies we have running it will turn it into a shanti town!!

I was the compere for today's events at City Park - it's been a long day, exhausted! Some negative comments on here I see - someone wrote "no master of ceremonies except a Radio 1 blast and the sound reverberating so not a word understood" - well i'm not Radio 1, I just do hospital radio at St. Luke's Hospital, but thank you for the compliment! As for the sound quality, we had mixed reactions on this all day! Some said not loud enough, some said too loud - you can't win them all. Thanks to all who came though - it was a brilliant experience for me.

I totally agree with Andrew-ide, it would have been great to have a street market + other things maybe. I was there about 2.30, and tried to push my way through to see what was going on, only to find nothing much, only a guy shouting over a tannoy. I,ve never seen so many people in Bradford centre, but will they all be there tomorrow, I rather think not. The main event was at 7.00pm, I wasn,t going to wait around till that time. (not in Bradford) As to whether all this will bring anything to Bradfords economy, I doubt it, but we shall see!!

I wasn't there. But what a load of rubbish, this whole park cost £3.2bn pounds and I thought I'd at least get some kind of personal gratification for that money. Was only a handful of people there and those that did looked miserable, because Cllr Green had personally upset them. There was some activities going on, but I was too busy crying whilst pouring over crime statistics and looking at empty shops to be able to enjoy them to the fullest.*

*Not all of that comment is true.

Went down with wife and daughter between two and three in the afternoon. Now I know that the entertainment was scheduled for later but I was still expecting something - anything - to be going on. As it was there was a at least a couple of thousand people milling around waiting for something to happen. There was a mildly 'carnival atmosphere' though (which was surprising given nothing whatsoever seemed to be happening apart form the occasional burst of loud music and announcements by the MC). I'm sure it was to become a lot better later but I was surprised that so little had been laid on for what one would have thought would have been 'prime time' (i.e. mid-late afternoon). Still, it was undeniably an impressive turnout.

An excellent turnout, no trouble, no sign of the much vaunted cultural division - everyone getting along together and talking to each other, spectacular entertainment. The children enjoyed the water. This is going to be a great success and one in the eye for the neysayers.

UNESCO City of Film,That will be why they want to demolish the Odeon then?Bradford Council reminds me of something my gran used to say'Arse from Elbow',Get a grip Bfd.

The Odeon protest went well. The point was a peaceful protest to watch the Odeon rather than the final event.

I spoke to a few people during the day, including a member of one of the bands, all of whom thought it was pathetic of the Council to cover up the Odeon. Not one of them wanted it demolished either.

We also had a lot of support from passing cars, who were blowing their horns as they passed.

Plenty of photographs were taken so expect to see them on Flickr and various websites. Except the T&A. "Nothing to see here."

ccb121 wrote:
I was the compere for today's events at City Park - it's been a long day, exhausted! Some negative comments on here I see - someone wrote "no master of ceremonies except a Radio 1 blast and the sound reverberating so not a word understood" - well i'm not Radio 1, I just do hospital radio at St. Luke's Hospital, but thank you for the compliment! As for the sound quality, we had mixed reactions on this all day! Some said not loud enough, some said too loud - you can't win them all. Thanks to all who came though - it was a brilliant experience for me.

You did a great job under arduous circumstances, the PA was way too directional and practically illegible on the grassy knoll.

The grand finale was somewhat shambolic to get going and starting on City Hall stage with an apologetic clarification just beforehand was a big letdown, no-one around the duck pond was going to risk losing their staked out spot.

The aerial ballet got dull very quickly and the impact of the moving lights was considerably lessened by them wiggling about on a preset sequence for the previous hour.

I thought that the actual contribution of the fountains to the finale was rather lacklustre until 'ole faithful' gushed all the way during also sprach zarathustra (2001 space oddysey) at the very end.

None of the much hyped interactive lighting on the reed columns actually contributed to the show in any way whatsoever and the only laser beam I saw was a laser pen being shone on the Odeon eyes. The projection on the odeon was inspired, by the way...

When I said illegible, I meant indiscernable. You could hear it (it wasn't inaudible) but the words were unclear due to the acoustic and no speakers facing that direction.

If anybody asks the question of 'Is it worth it?' all you have to do is look at the extra revenue that must have been raised for the City yesterday. I was in town for the footy, but caught some action before, and some after, and the place was absolutely rammed, and the best thing was everything was very harmonious and everybody was enjoying themselves. Made me feel very proud to be a Bradfordian yesterday. I had my reservations at first, but I think it will prove a great success in the long run, particularly if the council do pull off the kind events they have planned. Well done all.

No doubt it was busier as people went to see what all the fuss was about.
Will they turn up week after week now they have seen it? I very much doubt it.

yorkshiredude wrote:
I wasn't there. But what a load of rubbish, this whole park cost £3.2bn pounds and I thought I'd at least get some kind of personal gratification for that money. Was only a handful of people there and those that did looked miserable, because Cllr Green had personally upset them. There was some activities going on, but I was too busy crying whilst pouring over crime statistics and looking at empty shops to be able to enjoy them to the fullest.*

*Not all of that comment is true.

Not ANY of that comment is true.

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
No doubt it was busier as people went to see what all the fuss was about.
Will they turn up week after week now they have seen it? I very much doubt it.

There will not be crowds like that week after week, of course not, but you should compare the numbers to how many would have turned up to the old city centre before the changes.

Don't knock it. Yes it was expensive, but Bradford is changing for the better and this is a long-term investment.

Once the Westfield centre is built (I hear you groaning already but it WILL be built...eventually) then we'll be getting somewhere.

We went down for the last hour or so last night and were really impressed. Great turnout, and everyone seemed to enjoy the event. Nice to read some positive comments rather than the usual remorseless negativity. Well done Bradford

Avro wrote:

Albion. wrote:
Does anyone know how the Odeon protest went?

A wasted effort and nothing like the support of previous demos, few people took notice and from a distance the lights on the Odeon looked part of the Pond show!

A perfect opportunity missed to create havoc and gain the headlines, the Odeon will likely end up a pile of rubble within weeks, and Odeon supporters had better come to terms with it.

The point though wasn't to 'create havoc' - it would have been unfair to the people and children who really enjoyed the day, and would have been counter-productive. As it was the majority of people passing the protest seemed genuinely interested in what was happening, and wanted to support the retention of the building. And my understanding is that there actually isn't any one leading the movement per se. People have the opportunity to get involved either via BORG, or via Save Our Odeon and support the cause, but they have to be proactive and do it - no one will take you by the hand and lead you to it :-)
I was in Bradford for the whole day. I loved the happiness and joy of the kids playing in the pool (although the general ambience would have been helped by playing music quietly between acts in my opinion) and loved the Odeon demo too. A good day!

The people who said its the biggest turnout in the city centre its not true.

Yes it was a great turnout but when Bradford City got promoted to the premiership that was easily bigger crowd and a better day

I can't believe how negative some people on here are. Even after a fantastic show like that, which saw Bradford the busiest it's been in years, it's still not enough. You don't just magic up jobs and shops, it needs INVESTMENT. This is just the sort of thing to bring that in, let's hope it's the start of something big for the city.

City Park looked good after all the waiting. But I think the Council are way off the mark by thinking this will bring more shoppers into town. Anyone who was there yesterday, did you notice all of the people who were there with bags full of shopping. No! Well neither did I. Unfortunately the "icing" on the "cake" has been done before the "cake" and that will take many years to catch up. Time for some radical urgent planning I think. But well done council, you did your best.

Did anyone get hurt with the fireworks coming down on them?
Saw people having to get out of the way of them.

Yorkshire Lass wrote:
City Park looked good after all the waiting. But I think the Council are way off the mark by thinking this will bring more shoppers into town. Anyone who was there yesterday, did you notice all of the people who were there with bags full of shopping. No! Well neither did I. Unfortunately the "icing" on the "cake" has been done before the "cake" and that will take many years to catch up. Time for some radical urgent planning I think. But well done council, you did your best.

The shops were noticably busier, reason you saw few people with bags was that some of us did shopping and put shopping in car then returned to the event. Also hair dressers, cafes, restaurants were much busier.
Also services are much better for local economy than shopping as more of the money stays local.

Avro wrote:

Albion. wrote:
Does anyone know how the Odeon protest went?

A wasted effort and nothing like the support of previous demos, few people took notice and from a distance the lights on the Odeon looked part of the Pond show!

A perfect opportunity missed to create havoc and gain the headlines, the Odeon will likely end up a pile of rubble within weeks, and Odeon supporters had better come to terms with it.

Ha! Well, it certainly looked a lot better than the effort you made of course (presumably none). This was a real feel good event and it was good to have so many eyes on the odeon despite the best efforts of our corrupt council to cover it up. If it is such an embarrassment to them why not just do what the people of bradford clearly want and refurbish it rather than try to hide it? Well done to all involved in the good natured, light hearted and effective Odeon protest. I really felt it added something extra special to the glitz of the city park opening event.

can't believe how many people turned up, a really good day out, more future events & bradford will be on the up, well done for all

What a fantastic evening it was after 6-30 one thing let it down which was the parking but when i did find parking near alambra after 6 the council still gave me a ticket that did spoil the evening a bit

bd7lad wrote:
What a fantastic evening it was after 6-30 one thing let it down which was the parking but when i did find parking near alambra after 6 the council still gave me a ticket that did spoil the evening a bit

They should have given tickets and towaway from the bus bays of the cars parked in them.
Buses should not have been foreced to park in the road blocking traffic.

I was working through the day up the top end of town,and where i work it was very busy with lots of shoppers. One thing i did notice on Kirkgate, was the diversity of different cultures all intermingling and generally having a good time together. I know Bradford has had its fair share of problems, but i was very pleased everyone joined together to celebrate the opening of the city park. Long may it continue. Well done Bradford.

i think most good comments on here are from council workers or their families patting their own backs. it might have had many people there yesterday but unless a show is put on every weekend you are NOT going to draw that kind of crowd again. the entertainment was good (some) but between that and the racket apparently from a commenter above gave me a headache and the actual park is not anything like a park to be honest and nothing to write home about either. i like countryside and green floral spaces this is a concrete puddle so why call it a park. its not going to draw any of the people who like myself now uses Leeds to do my shopping and banking to move back to spending my money in Bradford. also why would anything down by the town hall encourage people to comeback and shop here? it is not near to the shops anyway. once again i will say the biggest problem in Bradford are the people and until they do not have the class or the money to spend or they would have started to shop elsewhere already. also the only thing that got me down there was to protest about a very loved and wanted building "the odeon" which is shrouded in conspiracy and needs some real investigative work to find out about the lies and deceit that has been brushed under the carpet and why. we all know the T&A are involved too. well done to all the lovely peaceful protesters that were there yesterday - maybe if every time there is anything going on down by the puddle we should all congregate and do the same again.

When will our council listen to our opinions? -they seem happy to receive our money!!

*the word until is a mistake and should not have been there sorry.

i hate bradford wrote:
*the word until is a mistake and should not have been there sorry.

Your biggest mistake was posting that load of tosh in the first place.

Me and my family spent the day in bradford, from just after 2 until after the finale. My in-laws also came down from durham for the day. We spent money while we were there -- in shops, eating out, and having a couple of pints in the city vaults. We all had a wonderful day, so much so that we went back today, spent some more, and joined the large joyous crowd enjoying the water. So yes, I do think it will bring people in week after week, especially when the weather's nice -- it's like a day at the seaside but without the sand and hours spent on the a64!
Best bits -- the lady on the balloon blowing my 4-year-old kisses, while we splashed in the water trying to catch her, and of course the fantastic finale (once it got going!). The worst bit -- nothing, except perhaps the traffic we left, but that will happen after any big event.
A brilliant day out -- the start of a love affair with city park!

Yes yes it all looks lovely . . . but let's see how lovely it looks when people are throwing rubbish into it and our elderly are forced onto the streets because the £xm spent on building a bloody pond in the middle of bradford could be put towards a better use . . .saving our nursing homes!

The council have no money to save our nursing homes, the original 5 homes that were meant to be built is now 3, the sites they've chosen aren't big enough and to top this off, they're closing another 3 in the next six months when they haven't laid a brick for the new homes, so what happens to the 80+ elderly/sick/disable
d who are in the homes that are getting shut down?

Just wonder how long it will be before the fountains dont work properly & notices posted closed until further notice or health & safety issues arise when the local drunks fall & hurt themselves...Loved the Odeon thing, but will it shame the council? Doubt it!

complete waste of tax payers money. the opening day was boring, you would get alot more excited watching paint dry. people just stood around getting bored as there was not much going on atall. kids splashing , a fit bird suspended from a balloon and some drummers drumming, Nine ladies dancing,
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves, thats sums it all up.

On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

jacko99 wrote:
complete waste of tax payers money. the opening day was boring, you would get alot more excited watching paint dry. people just stood around getting bored as there was not much going on atall. kids splashing , a fit bird suspended from a balloon and some drummers drumming, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, thats sums it all up.

i agree but what do you expect?

ck12321212 wrote:
On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas!

To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee!

I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

Its interesting to see that leeds now has a plan to copy us and build a city park on the now closed tetley brewery site. We should reciprocate and follow their example and build a city centre arena/entertainments venue. The odeon site seems ideally situated.

basil fawlty wrote:
Its interesting to see that leeds now has a plan to copy us and build a city park on the now closed tetley brewery site. We should reciprocate and follow their example and build a city centre arena/entertainments venue. The odeon site seems ideally situated.

Absolutely spot on!! With only one condition: DO NOT DEMOLISH OUR ODEON! Re develope or renovate, but that building has to be preserved. Look next door at the Alhambra!

Vaikona wrote:

pjl20 wrote: As a resident of the metropolitan district of the City of Bradford for 27 years this is the busiest I have ever seen the city centre. I truly hope that this heralds the city into the new era it so sorely needs.

yeah.. plenty of people there.. shame there's no decent shops.

Yep plenty of people there, busiest its been in years but how many were spending? Few if any , because there's nothing here to spend it in/on.

basil fawlty wrote:
Its interesting to see that leeds now has a plan to copy us and build a city park on the now closed tetley brewery site. We should reciprocate and follow their example and build a city centre arena/entertainments venue. The odeon site seems ideally situated.

we could do the opposite of leeds and convert the odeon into a brewery, but don't let the council run it, they could'nt organise a p1$$ up there.

Mutha.Slimer wrote:

Vaikona wrote:

pjl20 wrote: As a resident of the metropolitan district of the City of Bradford for 27 years this is the busiest I have ever seen the city centre. I truly hope that this heralds the city into the new era it so sorely needs.

yeah.. plenty of people there.. shame there's no decent shops.

Yep plenty of people there, busiest its been in years but how many were spending? Few if any , because there's nothing here to spend it in/on.

Really? I saw plenty of people spending in Nandos, Lloyds and Starbucks as well as the food stalls next to them. Also I think you're missing the bigger picture, which is to attract businesses into the city by creating a space people want to visit. You bring in the people and the businesses follow.

it seems to me that a lot of Bradfordians moan at any possible chance they get. I read post after post about people crying out for something positive in Bradford and when they get something low and behold they moan. I know its cost more than life itself to build but cant the people of Bradford just enjoy something for once and not moan!?

Where have the comments gone?

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote:
On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas!

To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee!

I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

SAVE THE ODEON protest....Elephant in the room anyone?????

webess wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:
*the word until is a mistake and should not have been there sorry.

Your biggest mistake was posting that load of tosh in the first place.

my opinion is tosh?? great multicultural paradise we have here in Bradford when half of the peoples valid views are ignored and classed as tosh. exactly what is tosh then the great i am webess?? then explain why my views are tosh please.

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote:
On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas!

To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee!

I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language.

I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper.
But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

mrs walker wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote:
On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas!

To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee!

I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language.

I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper.
But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

exactly my point. though protesteth to much you fool. at least im honest and if i could afford to i would leave bradford today because it is one of england biggest example of the mistake of multicultural experiments and pandering to the likes of you and your bigoted type!!

everything that poster wrote sound exactly like every visit i have into Bradford and the very reason i abandoned visiting the center long ago!! WE DONT MATTER ANYMORE!!

Mrs Walker the turn out was very much like being in Peel Park at the Melia.
My description of saturday is Asian background people attended in very large numbers, white background did not turn out in big numbers and black bacground fewer still.

Mrs Walker the turn out was very much like being in Peel Park at the Melia.
My description of saturday is Asian background people attended in very large numbers, white background did not turn out in big numbers and black bacground fewer still.

Lloyds bar kicking out time on Saturday night brought some lovely relief for the toilet searchers. i wouldnt let my dog get in that pool never mind my children

Andy2010 wrote:
Lloyds bar kicking out time on Saturday night brought some lovely relief for the toilet searchers. i wouldnt let my dog get in that pool never mind my children

Sounds like someone trying to do there level best to put off visitors.

you seem to have forgot the site's permanently monitored.

You can always tell when the directors behind a company are scam artists, they will have an impressive line up of cars in the parking area, the reception area will be rather swish with beautiful plants and perhaps an impressive fish tank taking centre stage, water features always give the impression of prosperity. Yet it`s all just a façade, look beyond the swish impressive entrance features and you find nothing, no real investment in the fundamental running of the business, no real business plan that looks toward the future, just a few smartly dressed front men who talk a good game, but talk is all it is, "Trust me, I have an impressive reception area, a cool water feature to capture the imagination, impressions are everything and surely you can see from ours we are on the up".
.
That`s Bradford, a swish looking reception area, a very nice water feature, all nice and swish for the all vital first impression,,,, but yet no long term business plan, no real investment in it`s fundamental infrastructure, no growth or future potential, just a stagnant business with a mirror pool which attempts to give the façade of opulence and efficiency.
.
Bradford Council are the directors behind this façade, they have spent multiple millions creating this swish reception area, which without addressing the degeneration of the shopping area itself in the city centre have created nothing more which upon scrutiny has the hallmark traits of a fly by night scam business operation. Real business investors are shrewd, they don`t invest because they see a cool water feature in the reception area, they invest because they see a business plan which has solid growth potential, Bradford Council has failed to set in place a solid business plan for the city centre shopping precincts and the serious and shrewd investors have seen that and accordingly stayed away,,,,, This mirror pool adventure is not going to fool them in any way, shape or form and it`s creation is indicative of a ruling council body that has no real clue that establishing solid business foundation is far more important than creating an illusion that does not stand up to scrutiny.
.
In 3 days time Imran Hussain, who has had a senior role with our council whilst it has overseen this appalling failure of our city, seeks to be elected as MP for Bradford West and therefore to play an even bigger role and have more power in shaping Bradford in the future, when you look at where his participation has led us already my sincere opinion is that to allow that to happen would be absolute folly. Looking at where he has collaborated to bring us frightens me enough, but the further prospect of Bradford West and the city of Bradford being dependant on him in the House Of Commons and what he does for us there absolutely scares the hell out of me.
.
There is only one sensible vote for Bradford West and that is George Galloway, George fights tirelessly for the constituents he represents, has an ability way beyond Imran as a parliamentarian which will put Bradford in the House Of Commons where it has not been for many many years, visible, prominent and where it can no longer be ignored as it has for far too long now.
.
On the 29th the people of Bradford West have a very simple choice to make, vote Imran Hussain and continue with this present policy of water feature façades that create nothing but illusion, or vote George Galloway, bring in a real politician who will speak in the interests of the people and address the real fundamental issues which if not addressed will leave us as nothing more than a façade for many years to come.

webess wrote:
I think the best part of it was the buzz, never felt anything like it in decades in the City. There were people of all ages and races mingling and no hint of friction.

And yes the rest of the City centre was far busier than usual.

I know one swallow doesn't make a summer, but maybe the mirror pool will prove the skeptics wrong...

You were'rnt around when City triumphed at Wembley, acheived promotion to the Prem and then survived the first season. You didnt attend the World Speedway final and subsequent big meetings at Odsal - but you wake up for tripe like this ?. Spending £27million on a water feature for a bunch of inept public servants to stare at in their lunch hour is a SCANDAL and Green and his cronies should forever hang their heads in shame. Why would anyone come into Bradford city centre because its been filled up with water ? - we had that for free in the late 60's when the whole city went underwater. Now our useless Councilliors have filled it up again for £27million.

theoutsider wrote:

webess wrote:
I think the best part of it was the buzz, never felt anything like it in decades in the City. There were people of all ages and races mingling and no hint of friction.

And yes the rest of the City centre was far busier than usual.

I know one swallow doesn't make a summer, but maybe the mirror pool will prove the skeptics wrong...

You were'rnt around when City triumphed at Wembley, acheived promotion to the Prem and then survived the first season. You didnt attend the World Speedway final and subsequent big meetings at Odsal - but you wake up for tripe like this ?. Spending £27million on a water feature for a bunch of inept public servants to stare at in their lunch hour is a SCANDAL and Green and his cronies should forever hang their heads in shame. Why would anyone come into Bradford city centre because its been filled up with water ? - we had that for free in the late 60's when the whole city went underwater. Now our useless Councilliors have filled it up again for £27million.

Would cost a whole lot more than £27m to get Bantams back in the Prem ;-)

Dale Martin wrote:
You can always tell when the directors behind a company are scam artists, they will have an impressive line up of cars in the parking area, the reception area will be rather swish with beautiful plants and perhaps an impressive fish tank taking centre stage, water features always give the impression of prosperity. Yet it`s all just a façade, look beyond the swish impressive entrance features and you find nothing, no real investment in the fundamental running of the business, no real business plan that looks toward the future, just a few smartly dressed front men who talk a good game, but talk is all it is, "Trust me, I have an impressive reception area, a cool water feature to capture the imagination, impressions are everything and surely you can see from ours we are on the up".
.
That`s Bradford, a swish looking reception area, a very nice water feature, all nice and swish for the all vital first impression,,,, but yet no long term business plan, no real investment in it`s fundamental infrastructure, no growth or future potential, just a stagnant business with a mirror pool which attempts to give the façade of opulence and efficiency.
.
Bradford Council are the directors behind this façade, they have spent multiple millions creating this swish reception area, which without addressing the degeneration of the shopping area itself in the city centre have created nothing more which upon scrutiny has the hallmark traits of a fly by night scam business operation. Real business investors are shrewd, they don`t invest because they see a cool water feature in the reception area, they invest because they see a business plan which has solid growth potential, Bradford Council has failed to set in place a solid business plan for the city centre shopping precincts and the serious and shrewd investors have seen that and accordingly stayed away,,,,, This mirror pool adventure is not going to fool them in any way, shape or form and it`s creation is indicative of a ruling council body that has no real clue that establishing solid business foundation is far more important than creating an illusion that does not stand up to scrutiny.
.
In 3 days time Imran Hussain, who has had a senior role with our council whilst it has overseen this appalling failure of our city, seeks to be elected as MP for Bradford West and therefore to play an even bigger role and have more power in shaping Bradford in the future, when you look at where his participation has led us already my sincere opinion is that to allow that to happen would be absolute folly. Looking at where he has collaborated to bring us frightens me enough, but the further prospect of Bradford West and the city of Bradford being dependant on him in the House Of Commons and what he does for us there absolutely scares the hell out of me.
.
There is only one sensible vote for Bradford West and that is George Galloway, George fights tirelessly for the constituents he represents, has an ability way beyond Imran as a parliamentarian which will put Bradford in the House Of Commons where it has not been for many many years, visible, prominent and where it can no longer be ignored as it has for far too long now.
.
On the 29th the people of Bradford West have a very simple choice to make, vote Imran Hussain and continue with this present policy of water feature façades that create nothing but illusion, or vote George Galloway, bring in a real politician who will speak in the interests of the people and address the real fundamental issues which if not addressed will leave us as nothing more than a façade for many years to come.

Galloway would bring even further "illusion" disillusion! If you think he can do anything.

webess wrote:

Andy2010 wrote: Lloyds bar kicking out time on Saturday night brought some lovely relief for the toilet searchers. i wouldnt let my dog get in that pool never mind my children

Sounds like someone trying to do there level best to put off visitors. you seem to have forgot the site's permanently monitored.

BY who?

The Urination Police or the stasi that is the T&A?

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote: On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter, My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended. My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn. Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude. I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children. Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English. Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas! To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee! I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language. I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper. But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

exactly my point. though protesteth to much you fool. at least im honest and if i could afford to i would leave bradford today because it is one of england biggest example of the mistake of multicultural experiments and pandering to the likes of you and your bigoted type!! everything that poster wrote sound exactly like every visit i have into Bradford and the very reason i abandoned visiting the center long ago!! WE DONT MATTER ANYMORE!!

I was just typing what i found and I get all this and yes maybe i was asking the wrong people for directions but may i ask you who am i meant to ask if not those who i did ask?? i asked 3 people before i got somebody who did speak english for your info and those who were pushing were polish and yes it is heart breaking for a 4 year old when you have promised something and then have to go back on your promise due to the rudeness of others and yes it may happen everywere but anyway i am sure you will have something to say about this so i look forward to your reply!

I am a pensioner living in the South West. I have worked my socks off all my life and my parent's generation struggled to establish our welfare state. I remember my grandparent's tales of the workhouses.
My MP does not represent me or my family.
Bradford is so lucky to have the choice of voting for George Galloway. I know he will do his very best for all of us.

doveonthewing wrote:
I am a pensioner living in the South West. I have worked my socks off all my life and my parent's generation struggled to establish our welfare state. I remember my grandparent's tales of the workhouses.
My MP does not represent me or my family.
Bradford is so lucky to have the choice of voting for George Galloway. I know he will do his very best for all of us.

He will do his very best for himself.

doveonthewing wrote:
I am a pensioner living in the South West. I have worked my socks off all my life and my parent's generation struggled to establish our welfare state. I remember my grandparent's tales of the workhouses.
My MP does not represent me or my family.
Bradford is so lucky to have the choice of voting for George Galloway. I know he will do his very best for all of us.

Just pray the muslim community of west bradford see that truth..they have the power to vote him in. Otherwise we have a bleak future ahead of us.

hope_for_bradford wrote:

doveonthewing wrote:
I am a pensioner living in the South West. I have worked my socks off all my life and my parent's generation struggled to establish our welfare state. I remember my grandparent's tales of the workhouses.
My MP does not represent me or my family.
Bradford is so lucky to have the choice of voting for George Galloway. I know he will do his very best for all of us.

Just pray the muslim community of west bradford see that truth..they have the power to vote him in. Otherwise we have a bleak future ahead of us.

You shouldn't be bringing religion in to politics, but seeing as you have, You are probably right, after all if someone believes one load of claptrap they are probably gullible enough to believe another.

hope_for_bradford wrote:

doveonthewing wrote:
I am a pensioner living in the South West. I have worked my socks off all my life and my parent's generation struggled to establish our welfare state. I remember my grandparent's tales of the workhouses.
My MP does not represent me or my family.
Bradford is so lucky to have the choice of voting for George Galloway. I know he will do his very best for all of us.

Just pray the muslim community of west bradford see that truth..they have the power to vote him in. Otherwise we have a bleak future ahead of us.

You shouldn't be bringing religion in to politics, but seeing as you have, You are probably right, after all if someone believes one load of claptrap they are probably gullible enough to believe another.

George Galloway is looking after No.1 as most of them do. How can anyone vote for a fool who dressed up as a cat and drank from a bowl on the floor. The man's a nincompoop.

Oldwestbowling wrote:
George Galloway is looking after No.1 as most of them do. How can anyone vote for a fool who dressed up as a cat and drank from a bowl on the floor. The man's a nincompoop.

Actually he only stood for one term there because that was all they needed to get their town off the scrapheap. And boy have things changed there. Write to anyone of the councillors in tower hamlets and they'll tell you what a difference he made. Additionally he doesn't do it for money..he's got his own radio show and has many other activities as he's a much sought after speaker and celebrity. actions speak louder than words....if he gets in just watch the changes

hope_for_bradford wrote:

Oldwestbowling wrote:
George Galloway is looking after No.1 as most of them do. How can anyone vote for a fool who dressed up as a cat and drank from a bowl on the floor. The man's a nincompoop.

Actually he only stood for one term there because that was all they needed to get their town off the scrapheap. And boy have things changed there. Write to anyone of the councillors in tower hamlets and they'll tell you what a difference he made. Additionally he doesn't do it for money..he's got his own radio show and has many other activities as he's a much sought after speaker and celebrity. actions speak louder than words....if he gets in just watch the changes

Or just watch the excuses:-
"Parliamentary participation statistics
After he was suspended and later expelled from the Labour Party, Galloway's participation in Parliamentary activity fell to minimal levels. After speaking in a debate on Iraq on 25 March 2003, Galloway did not intervene in any way in Parliamentary debates or ask any oral questions for the remainder of the Parliament and his participation in House of Commons Divisions was among the lowest of any MP.

Following the 2005 election, his participation rate remained low, at the end of the year he had participated in only 15% of Divisions in the House of Commons since the general election, placing him 634th of 645 MPs – of the eleven MPs below him in the rankings, one is the former Prime Minister Tony Blair, five are Sinn Féin members who have an abstentionist policy toward taking their seats, three are the speaker and deputy speakers and therefore ineligible to vote, and two have died since the election. Galloway claims a record of unusual activity at a "grass roots" level. His own estimate is that he has made 1,100 public speeches between September 2001 and May 2005.

In September 2009, he still had one of the lowest voting participation records in parliament at 8.4% as a total of 93 votes out of a possible 1,113 divisions."

Still not too shabby for a party that started just a few years ago. Still has more integrity than the rest of em put together. Incidentally thrown out of the labour party because he outright called tony blair a liar and a murderer...and I don't need to go running off to some website and copynpaste a load of statistics to prove my points. Dear bradfordians, if george gets in..he'll get one of the arab kings to buy bradford city..just imagine what kind of players we could get eh? :) I don't see manchester city complaining!!

Parliament is a "Gentlemens Club" and only the "chosen" are allowed to speak. Look at George Galloway's speeches against the Iraq war in the Commons on You Tube. He is listened to and he listens to us.
Who listened to the million of us when we marched? who listened to us in Parliament when our NHS was sold off last week.
Something is going wrong in our society and we need to change.
George Galloway talks a lot of sense and that takes courage.

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Still not too shabby for a party that started just a few years ago. Still has more integrity than the rest of em put together. Incidentally thrown out of the labour party because he outright called tony blair a liar and a murderer...and I don't need to go running off to some website and copynpaste a load of statistics to prove my points. Dear bradfordians, if george gets in..he'll get one of the arab kings to buy bradford city..just imagine what kind of players we could get eh? :) I don't see manchester city complaining!!

Last week you said you were signing off for good! Obviously not a man of your word.
Will he be buying the Westfield site and Odsal stadium as well?
If he doesn't get in which Muslim area has he got earmarked for his next stunt?

doveonthewing wrote:
Parliament is a "Gentlemens Club" and only the "chosen" are allowed to speak. Look at George Galloway's speeches against the Iraq war in the Commons on You Tube. He is listened to and he listens to us.
Who listened to the million of us when we marched? who listened to us in Parliament when our NHS was sold off last week.
Something is going wrong in our society and we need to change.
George Galloway talks a lot of sense and that takes courage.

He has zero chance of making any difference because he isn't a member of that "Gentlemens Club" and still won't be if he ever manages to win another election.
You might as well write Michael Mouse on your ballot paper and put a cross besides it.

webess wrote:

theoutsider wrote:

webess wrote:
I think the best part of it was the buzz, never felt anything like it in decades in the City. There were people of all ages and races mingling and no hint of friction.

And yes the rest of the City centre was far busier than usual.

I know one swallow doesn't make a summer, but maybe the mirror pool will prove the skeptics wrong...

You were'rnt around when City triumphed at Wembley, acheived promotion to the Prem and then survived the first season. You didnt attend the World Speedway final and subsequent big meetings at Odsal - but you wake up for tripe like this ?. Spending £27million on a water feature for a bunch of inept public servants to stare at in their lunch hour is a SCANDAL and Green and his cronies should forever hang their heads in shame. Why would anyone come into Bradford city centre because its been filled up with water ? - we had that for free in the late 60's when the whole city went underwater. Now our useless Councilliors have filled it up again for £27million.

Would cost a whole lot more than £27m to get Bantams back in the Prem ;-)

You miss the point...not asking the Council to fund City when have they ever ? the point is that there are a whole lot more beneficial things to spend £27m on in the god forsaken hole than a pond ! Lets start with sport as a means to some of the many lazy lards who were waddling around in the pond on Saturday off their backsides. £27m buys you a lot of healthy sporting options, where many are closing or certainly reduced.

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Still not too shabby for a party that started just a few years ago. Still has more integrity than the rest of em put together. Incidentally thrown out of the labour party because he outright called tony blair a liar and a murderer...and I don't need to go running off to some website and copynpaste a load of statistics to prove my points. Dear bradfordians, if george gets in..he'll get one of the arab kings to buy bradford city..just imagine what kind of players we could get eh? :) I don't see manchester city complaining!!

Last week you said you were signing off for good! Obviously not a man of your word.
Will he be buying the Westfield site and Odsal stadium as well?
If he doesn't get in which Muslim area has he got earmarked for his next stunt?

Yes i did say that..but then again..i continued back on that thread because I i realised this is too an important event to stay quiet about. Really most of what I'm saying is for the benefit of yourself and others who don't care much for the muslim community..for instance I spoke about the import of pakistani politics into our city..where the clan of which there are many vote their boy in..who is the same person you saw on the politics show yesterday..Would you send him to represent the needs of bradford to westminster?????

George goes where he is needed my friend..and right now bradford needs him badly.

hope_for_bradford wrote:

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Still not too shabby for a party that started just a few years ago. Still has more integrity than the rest of em put together. Incidentally thrown out of the labour party because he outright called tony blair a liar and a murderer...and I don't need to go running off to some website and copynpaste a load of statistics to prove my points. Dear bradfordians, if george gets in..he'll get one of the arab kings to buy bradford city..just imagine what kind of players we could get eh? :) I don't see manchester city complaining!!

Last week you said you were signing off for good! Obviously not a man of your word.
Will he be buying the Westfield site and Odsal stadium as well?
If he doesn't get in which Muslim area has he got earmarked for his next stunt?

Yes i did say that..but then again..i continued back on that thread because I i realised this is too an important event to stay quiet about. Really most of what I'm saying is for the benefit of yourself and others who don't care much for the muslim community..for instance I spoke about the import of pakistani politics into our city..where the clan of which there are many vote their boy in..who is the same person you saw on the politics show yesterday..Would you send him to represent the needs of bradford to westminster?????

George goes where he is needed my friend..and right now bradford needs him badly.

Hahaha! Yes! very badly.
Most amusing ;-)

doveonthewing wrote:
Parliament is a "Gentlemens Club" and only the "chosen" are allowed to speak. Look at George Galloway's speeches against the Iraq war in the Commons on You Tube. He is listened to and he listens to us.
Who listened to the million of us when we marched? who listened to us in Parliament when our NHS was sold off last week.
Something is going wrong in our society and we need to change.
George Galloway talks a lot of sense and that takes courage.

Too right..the bloodthirsty warmongers need to know that we don't want their endless wars and even a lone voice speaking against their wicked actions is enough to at least make them feel a little uncomfortable in their saville row suits. The sad thing is that we are in a recession and instead of making petty gains by supplying arms to the dictators and attacking the countries that haven't even so much as given the UK a sideways look, the government could be trading in the middle east as friends and business partners..but I doubt that would sit well in their black hearts as they are probably this minute fantasising about the days of empire where they ruled with an iron boot and took all the resources of those countries back to england. What a tragic loss for all!

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Still not too shabby for a party that started just a few years ago. Still has more integrity than the rest of em put together. Incidentally thrown out of the labour party because he outright called tony blair a liar and a murderer...and I don't need to go running off to some website and copynpaste a load of statistics to prove my points. Dear bradfordians, if george gets in..he'll get one of the arab kings to buy bradford city..just imagine what kind of players we could get eh? :) I don't see manchester city complaining!!

Last week you said you were signing off for good! Obviously not a man of your word.
Will he be buying the Westfield site and Odsal stadium as well?
If he doesn't get in which Muslim area has he got earmarked for his next stunt?

Yes i did say that..but then again..i continued back on that thread because I i realised this is too an important event to stay quiet about. Really most of what I'm saying is for the benefit of yourself and others who don't care much for the muslim community..for instance I spoke about the import of pakistani politics into our city..where the clan of which there are many vote their boy in..who is the same person you saw on the politics show yesterday..Would you send him to represent the needs of bradford to westminster?????

George goes where he is needed my friend..and right now bradford needs him badly.

Hahaha! Yes! very badly.
Most amusing ;-)

If a conversation between me and you can go from outright nasty to a smile and a wink...I am optimistic for the future! :)

hope_for_bradford wrote:

doveonthewing wrote:
Parliament is a "Gentlemens Club" and only the "chosen" are allowed to speak. Look at George Galloway's speeches against the Iraq war in the Commons on You Tube. He is listened to and he listens to us.
Who listened to the million of us when we marched? who listened to us in Parliament when our NHS was sold off last week.
Something is going wrong in our society and we need to change.
George Galloway talks a lot of sense and that takes courage.

Too right..the bloodthirsty warmongers need to know that we don't want their endless wars and even a lone voice speaking against their wicked actions is enough to at least make them feel a little uncomfortable in their saville row suits. The sad thing is that we are in a recession and instead of making petty gains by supplying arms to the dictators and attacking the countries that haven't even so much as given the UK a sideways look, the government could be trading in the middle east as friends and business partners..but I doubt that would sit well in their black hearts as they are probably this minute fantasising about the days of empire where they ruled with an iron boot and took all the resources of those countries back to england. What a tragic loss for all!

Parliament is run by committees made up of MPs and Civil Servants....not by the lone voice of someone they don't want and whose voting record is abysmal.
In recent years Martin Bell tried working alone but is best remembered for his speeches rather than his achievements....and he was popular!
As I said before, if George doesn't win this he will simply go to another predominantly Muslim area and try again.
In my opinion many of those voting for him are just trying to publicise or highlight their own agenda rather than achieve anything socially beneficial.

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote:
On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter,
My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended.
My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn.
Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude.
I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children.
Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English.
Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community
I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas!

To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee!

I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language.

I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper.
But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

exactly my point. though protesteth to much you fool. at least im honest and if i could afford to i would leave bradford today because it is one of england biggest example of the mistake of multicultural experiments and pandering to the likes of you and your bigoted type!!

everything that poster wrote sound exactly like every visit i have into Bradford and the very reason i abandoned visiting the center long ago!! WE DONT MATTER ANYMORE!!

If you were less confrontational in your manner, and thought more about what you were saying and how you were saying it, you could probably get a better job, which, in turn would allow you to leave. Just a suggestion. It would probably help your stress levels too. It can't be nice carrying all that anger around with you. I'm sure I advised you of that before, when you were posting under one of your other names.

Not me, I'm about his power with the emirate kings and his ability to convince them to invest in bradford..a future for our kids. Bradford was once one the busiest cities in england..the factories ran 24 hours a day. Also just because I'm also anti war and pro justice..that isn't a sinister agenda..I think most decent folk would agree it's a nobel goal to aim for even just for financial reasons if your morality can't take that stretch albion ;)

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Not me, I'm about his power with the emirate kings and his ability to convince them to invest in bradford..a future for our kids. Bradford was once one the busiest cities in england..the factories ran 24 hours a day. Also just because I'm also anti war and pro justice..that isn't a sinister agenda..I think most decent folk would agree it's a nobel goal to aim for even just for financial reasons if your morality can't take that stretch albion ;)

I know all about Bradford's industry, I was working in it almost 50yrs ago! Factories have gone in most cities as manufacturers take advantage of cheap labour in the various industrial revolution areas of the world.
Actually it would make no difference to me whatsoever if George got in, but it would sadden me that so many people were so gullible but then I'm already saddened by some of the other things that they slavishly follow.

ck12321212 wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote: On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter, My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended. My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn. Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude. I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children. Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English. Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas! To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee! I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language. I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper. But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

exactly my point. though protesteth to much you fool. at least im honest and if i could afford to i would leave bradford today because it is one of england biggest example of the mistake of multicultural experiments and pandering to the likes of you and your bigoted type!! everything that poster wrote sound exactly like every visit i have into Bradford and the very reason i abandoned visiting the center long ago!! WE DONT MATTER ANYMORE!!

I was just typing what i found and I get all this and yes maybe i was asking the wrong people for directions but may i ask you who am i meant to ask if not those who i did ask?? i asked 3 people before i got somebody who did speak english for your info and those who were pushing were polish and yes it is heart breaking for a 4 year old when you have promised something and then have to go back on your promise due to the rudeness of others and yes it may happen everywere but anyway i am sure you will have something to say about this so i look forward to your reply!

At least on your fourth attempt you were lucky.

I was serious though about the facepainting being shut when we went - that was disappointing too. Maybe they shut because of the queue-jumpers. Perhaps there needs to be a better system at such events - or more action on the part of the facepainters - so that it doesn't happen.

I get cross in a morning when I'm queuing to join the M62 from the M606 and car after car after car drives in the lane for Halifax and the A58 then cuts in front to jump the queue at the lights for the M62 - as though their arrival at work is more important than mine, adding ten minutes or more to my journey time on many mornings. That's what I meant when I say it happens everywhere - and I agree it doesn't make it right.

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Not me, I'm about his power with the emirate kings and his ability to convince them to invest in bradford..a future for our kids. Bradford was once one the busiest cities in england..the factories ran 24 hours a day. Also just because I'm also anti war and pro justice..that isn't a sinister agenda..I think most decent folk would agree it's a nobel goal to aim for even just for financial reasons if your morality can't take that stretch albion ;)

I know all about Bradford's industry, I was working in it almost 50yrs ago! Factories have gone in most cities as manufacturers take advantage of cheap labour in the various industrial revolution areas of the world.
Actually it would make no difference to me whatsoever if George got in, but it would sadden me that so many people were so gullible but then I'm already saddened by some of the other things that they slavishly follow.

wait and see...just ask yourself..who would you rather see representing us and it's between george and imran...

http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=okKxC4ZNI
qw

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

i hate bradford wrote:

mrs walker wrote:

ck12321212 wrote: On the 24th March I went to the opening of the new city park in the centre of Bradford with my 4 year old daughter, My daughter was very excited and loved the floating ballerina but unfortunately that is where our excitement ended. My Daughter saw other children with their faces painted so we looked and looked and finally found a couple of young ladies who were painting faces so we got in line and queued waiting for our turn. Whilst waiting all other people did was push in front of the queue making the line even longer despite people already in the line protesting all they got was abuse from those pushing in so in the end I had to break my daughters heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted due to others being so rude. I had to reason with my daughter who was in tears and get her to choose something else she wanted but all she wanted was her face painted like the other children. Whilst trying to move around people walked into us like we were not there knocking my daughter to the ground once and knocking her hand out of my hand several times and when I asked for directions on several occasions I discovered that almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English. Do not get me wrong I love Bradford to the core and its rich history but when it comes to its people I am ashamed to be part of its community I am 35 years old and I was brought up to have respect for others and treat others as you would like to be treat your self and though I love Bradford I am ashamed to be a part of it?

Really? I found most people polite and pleasant. I find it almost impossible to believe that 'almost everybody you asked for directions didn't speak a word of English' - there were so many white little old ladies there that I can't believe they were all from overseas! To be fair most children didn't seem to have their faces painted, so your daughter wasn't in a minority there. Was the abuse you got from those pushing into the face painting queue in English by the way? When we went to the face painters they were shut, which was a shame. Still, not to worry, it does all of us good to experience disappointment from time to time - just think how much easier it will be next Christmas when your daughter wants something else that's unattainable - you might even get away with giving her an empty cardboard box and getting her to use her imagination which is what my sister did when her children wanted to watch tv. Don't laugh - it saved her the licence fee! I did see lots of other people struggling with their kids though, because of the crowds, and it was difficult. I think I probably accidentally walked into little folk myself from time to time, so I'm very sorry if I was one of those people that knocked into you. There was no intended slight, I assure you. A lot of parents were carrying their children on their shoulders, which seemed sensible if you could manage it, but I agree it was a bit of a squeeze! But then the city centre has been empty for so long, it was just fantastic to see it so busy!

PATRONIZING people is not smart walker!! in fact your comment is embarrassing and condescending. one day you will admit the truth wont you and maybe one day you will stop the pretense of being a little old white woman when we all know the truth. you are on here simply to insult and ridicule anyone you think is white who has differing views than your own. this ladies views are as valid as yours so shut up and go away you are a troll. if all of the peoples views are heard who can changes be made to rectify the problems? maybe you prefer the divided city eh???? keeps you busy on here doesnt it!!!

Patronising? Yes, and it was meant to be. This 'lady's' views are over-emotive and irrational and - in my opinion - designed to highlight tensions where there were none: 'I had to break my daughter's heart by telling her that she was unable to have her face painted' Oh please, get a grip! So, some people are rude and should learn how to queue. It happens everywhere. And as for 'almost everybody who I had asked did not speak a word of English' - who on earth was she asking? An acceptable question, because I don't believe she couldn't find people who spoke her language. I am indeed a little white woman, though less of the 'old' you young whippersnapper. But if you hate Bradford so much, just leave. Just go.

exactly my point. though protesteth to much you fool. at least im honest and if i could afford to i would leave bradford today because it is one of england biggest example of the mistake of multicultural experiments and pandering to the likes of you and your bigoted type!! everything that poster wrote sound exactly like every visit i have into Bradford and the very reason i abandoned visiting the center long ago!! WE DONT MATTER ANYMORE!!

I was just typing what i found and I get all this and yes maybe i was asking the wrong people for directions but may i ask you who am i meant to ask if not those who i did ask?? i asked 3 people before i got somebody who did speak english for your info and those who were pushing were polish and yes it is heart breaking for a 4 year old when you have promised something and then have to go back on your promise due to the rudeness of others and yes it may happen everywere but anyway i am sure you will have something to say about this so i look forward to your reply!

At least on your fourth attempt you were lucky. I was serious though about the facepainting being shut when we went - that was disappointing too. Maybe they shut because of the queue-jumpers. Perhaps there needs to be a better system at such events - or more action on the part of the facepainters - so that it doesn't happen. I get cross in a morning when I'm queuing to join the M62 from the M606 and car after car after car drives in the lane for Halifax and the A58 then cuts in front to jump the queue at the lights for the M62 - as though their arrival at work is more important than mine, adding ten minutes or more to my journey time on many mornings. That's what I meant when I say it happens everywhere - and I agree it doesn't make it right.

I love bradford and most of its people
I work for the NHS work with people from all backgrounds and and think bradford is an amazing place but i saw another side of bradford and i was shocked and angry by what i came across anyway i shall leave it there and let this rest x

But Albion it would make a difference to you if George Galloway returned to Parliament.
It would make a difference to me too. It sounds as if we come from similar working backgrounds. Don't be sad. I still have hope. I want a decent future for my grandchildren. In my lifetime there has not been one single day of peace in our world and although he does not duck a challenge George Galloway is a peaceful man. All the best.

hope_for_bradford wrote:

Albion. wrote:

hope_for_bradford wrote:
Not me, I'm about his power with the emirate kings and his ability to convince them to invest in bradford..a future for our kids. Bradford was once one the busiest cities in england..the factories ran 24 hours a day. Also just because I'm also anti war and pro justice..that isn't a sinister agenda..I think most decent folk would agree it's a nobel goal to aim for even just for financial reasons if your morality can't take that stretch albion ;)

I know all about Bradford's industry, I was working in it almost 50yrs ago! Factories have gone in most cities as manufacturers take advantage of cheap labour in the various industrial revolution areas of the world.
Actually it would make no difference to me whatsoever if George got in, but it would sadden me that so many people were so gullible but then I'm already saddened by some of the other things that they slavishly follow.

wait and see...just ask yourself..who would you rather see representing us and it's between george and imran...

http://www.youtube.c

om/watch?v=okKxC4ZNI

qw

As they aren't going to represent me I don't much care but I would vote for Imran if I lived in the area as he at least has a chance of working with his party, nobody will work with George! If I wasn't limited to the option you gave me I would probably vote for another candidate but it seems to be a straight fight between those two.

doveonthewing wrote:
But Albion it would make a difference to you if George Galloway returned to Parliament.
It would make a difference to me too. It sounds as if we come from similar working backgrounds. Don't be sad. I still have hope. I want a decent future for my grandchildren. In my lifetime there has not been one single day of peace in our world and although he does not duck a challenge George Galloway is a peaceful man. All the best.

In your opinion maybe and we are still allowed to air our opinion, unlike many of the places where George goes posterior licking.

I'm relatively new to Bradford but very aware of many of the problems the city faces. When I moved to the city 18 months ago, I took time to visit the city centre. I've never shopped there or been for a night out there since that first look round. Last Friday I went along to see this new regeneration scheme. The park itself is a good idea, but badly executed & at a seemingly phenomenal cost. Whoever in the council was responsible should be held to account. it's a huge wasted opportunity in terms of reviving the centre with more leisure & retail to bring people with disposable income back into the city centre at night. More places to eat & more upmarket bars would have been an idea. Make the centre a place where people are happy to go back into at night. I don't even bother with events at The Alhambra or St George's Hall. One thing that annoyed me greatly was the decision of Nando's to make their second city centre restaurant in the park halal also. it sends out totally the wrong message, both for the city centre & the city as a whole, given that there is another halal Nandos restaurant within 2 minutes. I'd go into the city for a bite to eat there in a nice setting if it wasn't Islamic. There is nothing wrong with people following the religion of their choice, but this decision says to me that Muslims are considered as a primary focus over all others, which simply reinforces outside perceptions of Bradford & from what i can gather on this thread of messages it's a strong local perception also. As it stands I'll be sticking to Leeds city centre & the White Rose/J27 for my shopping & leisure time. Such a shame as there is great potential in Bradford.

if Bradford does not consider a successful and lets face it, honest man like george, consider this city finally going to the dogs. imran is not leader material.

lazybeat wrote:
if Bradford does not consider a successful and lets face it, honest man like george, consider this city finally going to the dogs. imran is not leader material.

And George is? Sheesh!
The calibre of candidates is somewhat lacking to me (all of them).

Well I have lived here all my 35 years, this stupid park wont help me stay in bradford, its just shown me that bradford wants a place for dole dossers and scum to go get drunk, and will pay big money for it too. Bradford is dead, killed off, leave it to the scum (councilors) and smack heads for me. Few months and goodbye to this mess that they call a city.

mark04 wrote:
Did the ODEON protest go well anyone know??

Was there one?

So we've gleaned if you want directions don't ask a foreigner, if you are bothered that your dinner didn't have a metal bolt shot through it's napper before it was slaughtered then don't eat at Nandos MK2 and the 'Usual Suspects' are still moaning about everything and anything. Plus ça change (plus c'est la même chose) as the mighty Rush one sang! Tschuss!

Lots of rumours about that they are preparing to start demolishing the ODEON,anybody any information, if this happens there will be such a outcry against the council

TirNaNog wrote:

mark04 wrote:
Did the ODEON protest go well anyone know??

Was there one?

So we've gleaned if you want directions don't ask a foreigner, if you are bothered that your dinner didn't have a metal bolt shot through it's napper before it was slaughtered then don't eat at Nandos MK2 and the 'Usual Suspects' are still moaning about everything and anything. Plus ça change (plus c'est la même chose) as the mighty Rush one sang! Tschuss!

There was, and it was well-received, though you wouldn't know it from the online edition of the T&A. I noticed a small picture in the print edition, but not much else.

From what I saw of the protest it was light-hearted and engaging. The majority of people that passed by were very interested in what was happening and support for the old lady is growing again.

I sincerely hope that there is a way to save the building; she looks fantastic against the mirror pool and the Alhambra and I for one would be willing to pledge an immediate cash donation followed by regular monthly amounts to help save her for Bradford.

TirNaNog wrote:

mark04 wrote:
Did the ODEON protest go well anyone know??

Was there one?

So we've gleaned if you want directions don't ask a foreigner, if you are bothered that your dinner didn't have a metal bolt shot through it's napper before it was slaughtered then don't eat at Nandos MK2 and the 'Usual Suspects' are still moaning about everything and anything. Plus ça change (plus c'est la même chose) as the mighty Rush one sang! Tschuss!

i made several points & you have chosen to focus on one part of just one.
Unless Bradford starts to rid itself of perceptions held inside & outside the city it will never recover. Look across the Pennines at a town like Oldham that was blighted by the same 2001 riots.
That town has also suffered from perceptions of locals & outside. It's town centre is dying off because it's not a place where people want to go & outside investors simply aren't interested.
As far as I'm concerned, when businesses in the heart of cities like Vradford start catering exclusively for the minority population (21% Muslim in 2001 census) it creates unnecessary didvsions & impositions. People are free to follow whatever religion they wish. However, just as Muslims have been given an alternative to what they consider haram, this has not been the case with Nando's. It is sadly a case of blatant Islamification that in my opinion me sends out totally the wrong signal & simply reinforces damaging perceptions of the city. There well be many other examples of this in Bradford, though I don't know because i don't venture into the city centre. I probably never will again as I don't want to subscribe to or support a religious belief & law that has no relevance to me, I will just assume it to be the case everywhere & stay away, like thousands of others.
What could & should have been a major lift for the centre will, in my opinion be a bit of a white elephant & not bring a return on investment.

I have written to Nando's regarding their halal-only policy and expressed my concerns. They say they'll get back to me once they've looked into the matter (I will post their response - if any). Perhaps others with concerns should write to them too.

kfc and subway are also just halal i think both the town kfc and the girlington too. so a boycott of both these bradford outlets is also needed. i have not set foot in either of these places as their policies offend me and my beliefs. i also never ever buy take aways of eat in at any of the popular curry shops including the popular one up leeds road. if i go for a meal i always go to places i know who supply non halal english food.

pjl20 wrote:
As a resident of the metropolitan district of the City of Bradford for 27 years this is the busiest I have ever seen the city centre. I truly hope that this heralds the city into the new era it so sorely needs.

I totally agree with you Bradford was very busy. I must say I was a bit annoyed by the amount of rubbish that was in the walkway, people just seem drop their litter anywhere. But it was nice to see the city full of life!

Apollo wrote:
It cost £34m and not £24m

Thanks for that correction! The paving cost a fortune and the odeon protest went very well and so many joined in. Keep your eyes out for the next one very soon with more notice given to supporters!

RedCyanNat wrote:

Apollo wrote:
It cost £34m and not £24m

Thanks for that correction! The paving cost a fortune and the odeon protest went very well and so many joined in. Keep your eyes out for the next one very soon with more notice given to supporters!

Hi,

I'd really like to see a breakdown of costs on that one.

Patrick Bateman wrote:
I have written to Nando's regarding their halal-only policy and expressed my concerns. They say they'll get back to me once they've looked into the matter (I will post their response - if any). Perhaps others with concerns should write to them too.

i emailed nandos about halal produce they responded by saying "we want as many people as possible to enjoy our restaurants" that was it,nandos stun their poultry before slaughter so is it halal,take a look at nandos halal restaurants and surprisingly quite a lot not in muslim areas

The council closed down Manningham pool, saying they had no money and couldn't afford to keep it open, but how much did they waste on this?

I think it's wise that in order this particular aspect of the topic isn't hi-jacked or turned into an anti-Muslim rant, I should point out the issue for me here is the sheer stupidity of companies like Nando's. They have existing halal provision in Bradford city centre, yet choose to extend this provision thereby excluding anyone who doesn't wish to subscribe to Islamic law & practices. Any reasonable equality impact assessment would indicate provision should be made for the majority non Muslim population (79% 2001 census) I choose to travel to J27 because I didn't want to eat halal at Nando's Exchange Square. As far as I'm concerned, by opening a 2nd hala outlet in the city centre the company is now actively discriminating against me for not being Muslim. If it's policy isn't changed at City Square I won't be spending any more of my disposable income at any Nando's outlet.

the money spent on this lake to wash cloths in could of gone towards helping to get the shops back on the streets of Bradford come on Bradford council do you want us to be a third world city because fingers out boys its coming shame on you all you could not organise a p*** up in a brewery