Good Friday 1966 was the day it all started. I was 9 years old. I had been asking my Mam and Dad for what seemed like a lifetime to take me to see City play. Dad worked every Saturday (no Sunday games then!). When Good Friday arrived I knew it was special, but no idea how special. This was one of the few days off my Dad had during the year because of his job. Normally we would go out for the day, Blackpoool or Southport. I got up had my breakfast and asked where we were going today. I was given a vague answer of “We haven’t decided yet”. Off I went to Gaskell Street Park in Newton Heath for a game of football with some pals. All my pals were saying City were at home today. Then it happened. My Dad appeared from nowhere. I ran to him excitedely and asked for what seemed the millioneth time “Can we go and see City?”. I can still remember his words now “What do you think I’ve got this for?” He showed me a shiny sky blue and white silk rosette my Mam had made for me. I knew the answer! Before I knew it, we were on our way to Maine Road. It was Bury at home, and City were on their way to promotion. It was the verge of the Bell, Lee and Summerbee Era. Mike Summerbee was already there, Colin Bell had just signed, and Francis Lee would sign the following year. I remember City had just signed Colin Bell from Bury which made the game extra special. My main memory is of seeing the pitch for the first time. We were in the Main Stand, at the side nearest the Scoreboard End. I could’nt believe how green and big the pitch was. I was also impressed with how many people were there (I later found out 43,000!). I also remember that City took their time coming out on the pitch. My 9 year old logic prompted me to say “I bet Colin Bell is still fastening his boot laces up!” My Dad just smiled! The game was just a blur. We won 1-0 with a goal from Mike Summerbee and my love affair with City started there and then. My Mam and Dad gave me many happy memories and treasured moments, and right amongst them was that sky blue and white rosette and my first game at City. On the way home all I could think of was my day at the game and the Easter Eggs when I got home!