I was greeted by this smile when I arrived in town this morning (by car - I've got a puncture on my bike) and it's very difficult to resist so I bought a copy of the Big Issue with the lovely Bob on the front. His owner, James Bowen, is spreading the Big Issue love as I'm sure even just his photo on the front will sell copies. For those that don't know the story James was an addict and down on his luck when Bob rocked up at his flat and refused to leave. He was sick and injured and James spent the rest of his money getting him treated. He was busking to earn money to live and Bob insisted on getting on the bus with him, riding on his shoulders and sitting with him while he played. His takings began to soar - so much so that it began to be a problem - issues with crowds, jealousy from other buskers etc. He decided he needed another way to earn money to feed himself and Bob and begged for a Big Issue pitch. You can't have one unless your addiction is being managed so he had to get that sorted out properly as well at a methadone clinic. Ultimately he went cold turkey - deciding that he had to take more responsibility for himself so he could care for Bob. Unbeknownst to James, Bob was becoming an internet sensation as people all around the world took his photo and posted it online. Eventually he (James not Bob) was offered a book deal to write his story. The rest, as they say, is history.
Anyway my lovely subject who doesn't speak much English didn't like her photo and made me take others with a serious face that she does like - I've promised her a print.
I have read the Bob book...an amazing cat....used to travel on his shoulder if I remember rightly! The happiest Big Issue seller I have ever seen.......she deserves to sell loads.
