Monthly Archives: September 2011

ask in shops if they’ve got any work. Some shake their heads, some smirk he’s getting tired, his feet are hot and achy. This isn’t the way to do it. By one o’clock, all he’s tasted is a cup of … Continue reading →

He’s never been in one before there’s queues of men at the door Frankie thinks a few look like they’ve slept in their clothes. The staff look weary. The lass behind the counter asks: Name. Address? Er, I’m hangin. At … Continue reading →

He wakes at five, thinks – still alive then – but he can hardly move. It hurts to stretch his legs knees and ankles crack, his back wont bend. Frankie hobbles into town again can’t think further than a cup … Continue reading →

He dozes on the bus half watches the passengers getting on and off. As they nash down the A19 the sun turns blood red in the sky. The lights of Teesside spread out like jewels in an inky pool. He … Continue reading →

He jogs into town drop his swimming gear in a skip down a back lane in Summerhill Square The leaves are turning tobacco brown and gold, there’s a smell of smoke. He stops in a kebab shop buys a burger … Continue reading →

Bev gets pissed off when Frankie misses training I need to know I can rely on the team Frank says Promise I’ll be there for the gala but in his head he knows he won’t as he lies in the … Continue reading →

He yanks open the back door and grabs the green towel out of Paddy’s hands What ye deein with that ? It’s my swimmin towel! Dad slides out from under the car What the hell..? Frankie’s pushing Paddy Dirty little … Continue reading →