Research undertaken in Bristol University has revealed an alarming psychiatric condition that has been festering, unnoticed, for centuries in North Bristol. After careful analysis of saliva found on a Proper Pasty discarded in Whorefield, DNA samples have revealed the offending gene has been in existence from the early 11th century. It is believed to have developed in the swamps of East Brigstow, following the ancient game played by the locals, involving kicking a pig's bladder around a field until all participants got tired and fell over. Invading Vikings witnessed this game, whilst pillaging nearby, and announced "Ist Vile", as a reference to the poor standard of bladder kicking. This was later changed to Eastville (official birthplace of the inferiority complex).

Symptoms displayed by the sufferer include : -

1. constantly referring to neighbouring, larger, wealthier, better supported clubs as "Massive" - speech marks are often used to emphasise the sarcasm in this statement.

2. Constantly referring to neighbouring larger, wealthier, better supported clubs as Arrogant.

Sufferers are so traumatised by this condition, that in order to compensate for their perceived "smallness"they live in large travelling communities, and can often be spotted in lay-bys in the North Bristol area.Although there is no known cure, experts urge "small clubs" more glamorous neighbouring teams to ease their suffering by "throwing a game" occasionally. Bristol City gallantly employed this tactic in the 2006/07 season in the Tin Pot Trophy.

Unconfirmed reports suggest potential outbreaks in Tranmere, Oldham, Bury, Crewe & Walsall.

Inferiority complex

-noun

1. Psychiatry. intense feeling of inferiority, producing a personality characterized either by extreme reticence or, as a result of overcompensation, by extreme aggressiveness.

2. lack of self-esteem; feeling of inadequacy; lack of self-confidence.

[Origin: 1920-25 Eastville Stadium, Bristol, UK]