Oh deary me. I wonder what the adults around me thought of my chances of even surviving in a world when at three, I began the six years of WW2.
Grew up, through my schooldays in Moss Side, Manchester - heard of its reputation?
Then moved to the stability of the East End; the Krays lived just down the road.
Point of this? There is
NO validity whatever in using your background as an excuse for what is pure, mindless criminality (well, maybe I'll now admit to scrumping the odd apple as a kid ...)
I know Andrew's friend that he describes so vividly as forcefully refusing to use an underprivileged background as any excuse. He is doing well for himself now, and I have the greatest admiration for him.
Anyway, to a short-term solution to avoiding the gormless criminality of recent days. Just come out on Marco's famed Wednesday ride tomorrow (nearly today). I guarantee complete serenity and safety in the regions of North Downs, Tatsfield, Pilgrims Way, and Downe. Top cakes at the cafe there, too.