Bradford singer James Spencer dreams of playing Valley Parade

Thackley singer-songwriter James Spencer has got the taste of the big stage after recently playing Glastonbury this summer.

The 18-year-old regularly dons a Bradford City jersey when on stage strutting his stuff to his selection of indie/pop tunes.

Original singles such as 'She's No Jesus' and 'It's Happened Before' drape the set list as well as a number of well-loved covers.

James on stage (Image: UGC)

Travelling to Somerset as merely part of the audience, an opportunity to showcase his talents came out of the blue.

"We were going anyway," James said.

"Through the people we knew behind the scenes at the festival, they said a slot was available after someone had not turned up. We ended up playing for over an hour.

"It was one of the smaller stages. We got around 600-700 people in the tent. It was an unbelievable experience.

"We have been playing at different festivals for a few years but having Glastonbury on your CV helps build your reputation."

The teenager is joined on stage by his band - consisting of a guitarist, bassist and drummer.

James recalls the story of how special it was to play Glastonbury with a band member he has known for over a decade.

The band in action (Image: UGC)

"I met my drummer (John Pullan) when he was my teacher at Idle Primary School. I was about seven," he added.

"We reconnected about three years ago as he lived pretty close to me. I showed him some of my music and since then we have been worked together.

"He has also acted as my manager, guiding me to the right places.

"To play Glastonbury with someone I have known for so long was quite nice."

It is his roots that mean the most to him.

James takes inspiration from Toon talent Sam Fender, who headlined Newcastle United's St James' Park earlier this year.

"I have had a season ticket at Valley Parade since I was seven.

"It is great fun to wear my Bradford City shirt while playing, representing your own football team at a place like Glastonbury is huge.

"I have a couple of songs coming out this year which we are expecting to do quite well. We have our fingers crossed.

"It is just about building the fanbase and our social media presence. The more gigs you do the better you get.

"It would be nice to play Valley Parade one day."