National Service for 18 year olds in the 1950's

Born in Otley West Yorkshire in 1934. Attended St. Joseph's  R.C. School in Otley. First job at Wm. Walkers Printerdom until National Service. Following service became postman in Otley until progressing through examinations to become established Civil Servant. Retired in 1994 at the age of 60. Since then have concentrated on holidays !

 Have had a varied life since leaving service in 1952. Thankfully a long and happy marriage [52 years and counting] I have three grown up children and three grandchildren. I am [was ] a keen walker having completed most of the long distance walks including The Pennine Way and The Coast to Coast walk. I am also [was] a cyclist affilliated to Otley Cycle Club, Wensleydale Wheelers and Hambleton Road Club.  I am a life member of The Youth Hostels Association - my how that has changed since 1949. I com;pleted a solo unsupported Lands End to John O'Groats ride in my early sixties. I have had Hot air Balloon flight a.helicopter flying lesson and micro-light flights. Memorable helicopter flights were over The Grand Canyon and The Great Barrier Reef [Not at the same time !!!] Also, in my early sixties I did a tandem sky-dive from 12.000 ft. -  I was on holiday in Gran Canaria at the time.

An operation on my right foot in May 2008 seems to have put paid to my walking days, I have constant pain now and wonder if the op was really worth it. My cycling activities are few and far between now. Done a little over 100 miles this year. The weather is always wrong - my excuse. I have a 1952 lugless Claud Butler and a 1957 Ellis Briggs. Did buy an all dancing/singing Scott Road Bike but sold it and reverted to my trusty Butler. 

Thats my trumpet blown for now.......perhaps more mundane things in next para.