James Dean Bradfield

BORN: 21 February 1969 in Pontllanfraith, Wales

PLAYS: guitar and is also lead singer with The Manic Street Preachers

BACKGROUND
James' father, Monty, was originally a carpenter and his mum, Sue, worked in a betting shop. Sadly, she lost her battle with cancer in 1999.

His father was going to call him Clint Eastwood Bradfield!

At the age of 11 his cousin, Sean Moore - who would become the band's drummer, came to stay at James' house. They grew up together and became more like brothers than cousins.

James often skipped school, especially towards the end. When he decided to appear on the last day, he discovered on finding the gates locked that he had got the date wrong!

OTHER FACTS
James is a keen football fan and supports Nottingham Forest.

With his first wages he got a tattoo of a dolphin done.

He still helps the band's roadies lug the heaviest of their gear around.

He used to run 6 miles a day and occasionally his obsession with fitness resurfaces.

Despite his apparent love of the London social scene, some say he is a loner at heart.