'These are hard times. Chatting digitally with various Bulls supporters, I’m shocked just how many are in isolation or are struggling by with reduced or no income. Whole families penned up and already fractious in week one. I want to do more to help though distance and personal caring responsibilities are massively limiting.
During a national crisis, football doesn’t matter yet at the same time it does. It’s our tribe, our culture and the best escapism anywhere. It does matter even if health matters far more. Football is a symbol of normality. A frustration escape valve.
During a national crisis, football doesn’t matter yet at the same time it does. It’s our tribe, our culture and the best escapism anywhere. It does matter even if health matters far more. Football is a symbol of normality. A frustration escape valve.
I can best help by maintaining a footballing norm. I’ve shuffled fully into the editorial hot seat at Talking Bull fanzine. It’s a privilege to maintain this 31-year-old organ (that’s the publication, not me). The fanzine is going online and is free of charge. There is an opportunity to bring diversion, community and a little bit of footballing normality to our supporters. It pairs well with the Radio Hereford FC virtual radio programme every Saturday afternoon and Matt Healey’s ongoing video nostalgia fest.
Ace designer Keith Hall is beavering away on the Talking Bull 119 layout. Who knew that his many talents stretched in that direction? Hopefully, release is just a few days away and a link will be shared as soon as possible. The themes are “happy days and humour” with lavish doses of both within its 28 pages. The look is more traditional fanzine-like as free doesn’t run to a professional print designer. But fanzines need rough edges. And to be honest in a way that programmes can never match.
Ace designer Keith Hall is beavering away on the Talking Bull 119 layout. Who knew that his many talents stretched in that direction? Hopefully, release is just a few days away and a link will be shared as soon as possible. The themes are “happy days and humour” with lavish doses of both within its 28 pages. The look is more traditional fanzine-like as free doesn’t run to a professional print designer. But fanzines need rough edges. And to be honest in a way that programmes can never match.
So why am I sharing all this? Because Talking Bull Issue 120 is next up.
I’m seeking audience participation. With so many of us confined to barracks, there’s surely more time now to remember your favourite football story. That strange fact. A memorable game or an awayday. Good jokes. Long or short, everyone has a Bulls story to share and its cathartic to type and share. No deadline. We’ll publish when we have a decent read and start stockpiling for the next one.
I’m not seeking literary finesse (though I’ll grab any with alacrity). A rough draft, just an idea even is fine. I can enhance the finer detail and tidy up grammar if necessary. If you want to know more before committing, just ask. You can pm me or email editor@talkingbull.org with queries or contributions.
Really be grateful your support, guys and gals. Together, we are united.'