A couple of years ago Sky TV ran an advert (for its own services) which suggested that you should chose your team carefully because that team becomes yours for life. I wondered at the time whether that statement was really true.

57 years ago I chose as my team (or were they chosen for me?) Bradford Park Avenue. One particular date stands out – 11th April 1955, the day after my 5th birthday. I know that I had gone to BPA games before then because those earlier games had dictated my birthday present request.

So, what did I ask for? A train set? A cowboy outfit? (I'm not sure whether City were for sale at that time!) My very own Frido Football? No it was none of these. What I actually wanted was to go through the turnstile on Horton Park Avenue. Note: I wanted to go through and not over the turnstile – I wanted to be a real grown-up. This was how I know that I must have attended earlier matches. My father must have lifted me over the stile. I'm sure he continued to do that after my birthday, but at least I was now a man. I had gone through the gate and I had paid to do so!

I have to say that in all honesty I remember nothing of the match. I know that the visitors were Grimsby Town, and that Avenue won 2-1, but I had to look that bit up. Still the seeds were sown and from that time on I was Avenue through and through.

As with all love affairs it has had its ups and downs. Who could forget seeing Jim Fryatt's "four second" goal and (most of) Kevin Hector's 100+ goals? On the other hand, who could forget the feeling of dismay on hearing that Charlie Atkinson was to be released? And that dreadful news item showing the jubilant Cambridge United fans? And Herbert Metcalfe?

It's been a lasting love affair. I still watch Avenue whenever I can.

I can sense that you're starting to become irritated. "Come on" you're thinking, "this is Thackley's website". OK, but thank you for your patience in bearing with an old man and his memories.

Back to that Sky TV advert. Is it possible for a football fan to change allegiance? The first allegiance will always be there, even if in the background; if not, then you have to question whether you were ever a true fan.

But times change. It's now seven years since my sons came to Thackley (and I followed them) from junior football. Those seven years have brought me so much pleasure. Thackley is a great club with loyal fans (although we would all like to see more of them) and a superb team of volunteer workers off the field. I'm proud to play a minor part in that. On the field the Dennyboys are developing into respected opponents at whatever level they turn out for the club. Last year's achievements speak for themselves.

But I'm sorry to disappoint, I'm not getting down from the fence. Fortunately, for the most part I don't have to. In the coming months, as last season, I'll walk down to the Dennyfield as often as I can, and I'll go to Horsfall as often as I can. Whichever direction I'm heading, there will be a spring in my step.

"But what about Saturday? Surely you will have to come down on one side or t'other then?"

That is a bit of a tester. First half Green and White (or is it Red Amber and Black?); second half Red and White? Or maybe vice-versa? That would just be too much of a cop-out!

Finally, after much heart-searching, my decision is made and I declare it for all the world to see. I shall be supporting both sides on Saturday! Depending upon the constitution of the BPA side on the field I shall be wearing my G&W scarf for part of the match, and my red scarf for the rest!

There has long been a friendly rivalry between the two clubs and over the years many players have turned out for both. Long may that relationship last.

Whatever the outcome of this match, let's not forget that it is a pre-season friendly, and let's hope that it is played in that spirit, and that it is an enjoyable game. Let's hope that the weather behaves.

Come on Thackley! Up the Avenue!

See you there? (Any offers on lifting me over the turnstile, for old times' sake, would be much appreciated.)