Yes I have a very inquiring mind and sometimes go very deep into things.

Why am I like that. Upbringing, job or jobs etc.

It probably started with a chap called Bob Rowntree who lived in 22 Crawley Ave. when I was growing up.

Bob built model aircraft and boats This was around 1947 to 1953ish. Built to his designs as I remember.

He built a big model aircraft with about a 6 foot wingspan and I think radio controlled, bright Red as I remember.

He would fly them occasionally in the fields where the council houses were build in later years. I think he was just trying to them out before going to a model aircraft flying club meet.

Through him I got into modelling, buying kits from the shop in Blenheim St.. then along came something like Airfix kits which you assembled and then painted. You had to have an eye for detail to do a good job.

All this led me to read and understand drawings etc. and I think that because of that my father was able to get me an apprenticeship in Hebburn Palmers drawing office.

Due to my apprenticeship and about 12 years at college and lectures it broadend my knowledge etc.

However when I moved down to Harrogate my work knowledge type thing widen massively because I could adapt to changes like computers coming in and be able to adapt our office practices and speed them up.

One thing led to another and I as a second string took on a contract claim. Our parent company was facing a £5-6 M claim and I was put in the position of expert witness GULP. Me a wee Geordie!

I had three visits to Chambers in London to face a QC and my director after the first visit said how did you manage that Allan.

I cannot remember my reply but it wasn’t I can bull shit with the best of them. I just knew my stuff that’s all.

In the end our parent company had to shell out £550,000 and I was given money for a two week family holiday all.

My input was only part of it but enough to make crack in their claim.

Ann used to say to me what are you reading now? It could be a manual, a wiring diagram, just technical stuff. When I started Family History research I lost being able to take account of time.

Allan C,