Once again, it has been an eventful year for the Bradford district. And, once again, it has been a year of dramatic highs and lows.

Not surprisingly, perhaps, the highest and lowest points emanated from the same source - the district's bid to be voted European Capital of Culture in 2008.

The most depressing moments, of course, were provided by the failure to make the shortlist. But the stunning campaign - and the astonishing way it united people of all ages, cultures and creeds in support of the district and its potential - produced, on many occasions, feelings of great euphoria, of immense pride and of an all-too-rare passion for Bradford and its future.

Passion was also a factor in plentiful supply when it came to the Bantams' fortunes. For a time there, it looked as if the city faced the unthinkable scenario of going into the 2002-2003 season without a Football League club.

But 2003 holds a brighter outlook, not least with the promise of our new stars, Gareth Gates and Kimberley Walsh, who are certain to keep the city's name in lights throughout the year to come.

With work due to start on the new Broadway shopping development, Odsal set for a long-awaited revamp, a new Urban Regeneration Company to point the way ahead for the city centre and the impetus of the Culture bid to build on, the Bradford district faces the prospect of a year of positive growth.

With a little bit of luck on our side as well it could just be a Happy New Year for all of us!