An Introduction…
I was born in 1951 – the youngest of 4 brothers. Growing up in the Rhondda we all knew that there were three career paths open to us
- Steel
- Coal
- Follow our father into the Army
Oldest brother escaped by going to University where he studied chemistry. Leaving University he got a job in Kent. Second brother chose Steel while studying at the local Polytechnic (remember those?), and after a few years moved to British Telecom (known as Post Office Telephones in those days) and worked for them until he retired. Brother No 3 also chose Steel, but as an apprentice electrician, and after qualifying worked as an industrial electrician for various companies all over the UK.
And then it was my turn. I didn’t fancy the Army (although I did briefly flirt with the idea of enlisting in the RAF), but before the time came for me to make the steel/coal choice something momentous happened – we moved!
My father had a small inheritance. Only £1000, but a lot of money in 1965, and my parents used it as deposit on a house – but not in the Rhondda, this house was in Newport where my father was then working. Newport was only 15 miles away, but for a teenage lad brought up in the Rhondda it was the next best thing to Carnaby Street! The Sixties were Swinging in Newport. I left school (with 4 O-levels) and went to work initially in a shop selling DIY stuff. For 10 years I worked in retail selling clothes, furniture, records, carpets and even electrical goods. I loved the retail life.
But how I envied the manufacturers representatives that used to call on us. With their sharp suits, company cars and “flexible” working hours they seems to have the best job ever.
At least, that’s what I thought, until I became one.
More in Part 2
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What a wonderful introduction, Thank you for sharing your life with us, I look forward to part 2 🙂
Enjoyed reading about your life and look forward to part 2.
Thanks, lefthanded, what a brilliant story! I was born April 65! Am looking forward to the next thrilling installment!
Thank you for the share. Look forward to Part 2