Taking into consideration of the amount I sold the toys for, I wish I had put them into the attic because as the years past the value of these toys increased, which would have resulted in my finding the deposit for my house a lot easier when I got married later.

I left school to go to college to learn a trade in Agricultural Engineering, just before I was to start studying my ‘O’ levels. The reason was that my head master thought I would not pass any and I would stand a better chance by learning a practical trade. I find it amusing, how I managed to pass all my CITY & GUILD exams in theory as well as practical.

When I started work as an apprentice at a firm that made hop and fruit picking machines. I had to do all the dirty jobs for the first year, which was normally customary in those days. This is known as being a “Grease Monkey” or “Tea Boy”.

It was a good thing because it got the apprentice to appreciate the quality of the working environment as well as the work itself. Hence a word of warning, if I played up or didn’t do as I was told or did my job incorrectly, my next job would be either a greasy or monotonous one. So this gave me the correct attitude that was needed for my future working career.                                               

I often tried to run before I could walk, as the old proverb goes; by attempting jobs that were a bit beyond my capabilities. I later found to my advantage, that it doesn’t hurt to learn by one’s own mistakes, skills come from experience.

The only regrets of my teenage years are; I started smoking and drinking alcohol excessively which affected my health and economical means. Health-wise I now occasionally suffer from Asthma and Bronchitis, when I get colds. Moneywise, I could have saved some money for when I got married or even for a better car, also wishing I had listened to my elder’s advice.

Teenagers today have a certain amount of sympathy from me, because of the recession and the tighter jobs market, and it will get tougher as many leave University as well so the competition is greater per job vacancy. With more immigrants being enticed to work here, it will get even harder and eventually when the school leaver goes through their University years and pile up more debt with their student loans, the outcome is frightening.

Other teenagers who have come from less fortunate backgrounds will find it even harder, if they are not guided properly. Many have been brought up by single parents and many have achieved the nickname of Ferrell and they will find it even harder because of circumstances in the home and their upbringing will give employers doubt in their ability although some maybe quite suitable.

I admit I was very lucky back in my teenage years and I blame the Governments of both Labour and Tory Past and Present for letting things get out of hand.