My friend Jacques

As portraits go this wouldn't win any competitions, but it's important to me because it's the first time he's allowed me to take his photograph.

I first met Jacques about ten years ago when he and his ancient bicycle took up residence in the disused garage next to my charity shop. I saw him through that period of his life and through a psychiatric hospital placement. He's now settled in a little hostel and we still see each other regularly. The relationship works because we genuinely like each other.

Today was his birthday. He's still got a pink Christmas tree up, because he likes it. There's a lot of clutter in the background because he loves picking up bits and pieces in charity shops and making up stories about where they came from. Happy Birthday Jacques!