Chris, thank you mate for the memories, from 1974 I had two “Scaley bratt”, tours, then two of my own in the late 80’s and then late 90’s, all “QCS Regt”, tours. It has changed a lot over the years, it is one of the places I have been able to call home with the life I have had, a shame that has gone also…
Uxbridge has changed beyond belief as the demographic has changed, let alone the houses on what used to be the RAF camp. Thanks for your support and comment
Hi Chris Driven past Uxbridge many times on my way to Northwood HQ, spent many hours underground there! Your Vlog unearthed much nostalgia for me as I witnessed you walking around that what was and that which is now, knowing none of the residents appreciate the history of where they live. Only your memories. As a Midshipman in the RN, back in 1977, I spent 6mths at HMS VERNON. The base used to be situated at the mouth of Portsmouth Naval Base, to the right as you passed by the fortress where all the crowds gather to cheer the ships as they leave/come home. Right where the Battleship Vanguard went aground, in 1960, on her way to the breakers yard. HMS Vernon was sold and redeveloped into a beautiful housing/recreational space and I visited it many years later. Just like you I reminisced about what had been so immediately connected with your Vlog. As a young officer, at HMS Vernon, I got very close to a junior female steward, and like your story about broken wrists and getting the nurse to help out best I say no more, apart from "Liaisons" between junior ranks and officers were deemed totally unacceptable. I met her 14yrs later getting lunch in the Officers mess at Northwood, I as Lt/Cdr and she as a Petty officer, we connected immediately. Both our relationships were in tatters and I will always remember the look in her eyes, and tears, as we again went our own ways! How life could have been different!!!! Like so many of your subscribers I find your approach to "Utubing" totally refreshing, honest and a joy to watch. I appreciate this Vlog may have stirred up personal memories but I will always remember "Jill Scott" with so much affection. Thank you Mel
Been there in the liaison thing a few times.What could have been but wasn't for a plethora of reasons. I suppose you can only look back with fondness of how life could have turned, perhaps on a sliding door moment, life would have taken a different turn. Who knows what could have happened afterwards. A nostalgic comment Mel. Thanks for sharing.
Chris, I want to express my sincere condolences to you and your country over the loss of the Queen . . . may she now be able to Rest In Peace. We are all sadden in the States. May the double rainbows give us all the feelings of peace and understanding for the future . . .
An end of an era Ron. I think the speed of which it happened. See PM on Tuesday, passed Thursday. Probably the most famous woman in the world and not many have a bad word. The football stadiums were respectful too. Normally you get a few lunatics but the Man Utd crowd fell silent. Very pleasing. Thanks for the thoughts Ron.
@@chrismears-inslowtime The story you spoke of in a previous episode when you were on the firing line with her asking you a question was quite humors and bare repeating . . . it was a pleasant story. Cheers.
Nostalgia. It's nice to reflect on times gone by Chris so thank you for sharing some of yours. I met my wife at the age of thirteen, on the local park that separated our houses after she moved to our estate. We always said that if anything happened to us that we would have our ashes scattered on that park so we would end up together, where it all started. Years and years later, and after her being diagnosed with cancer, we started to rethink - what if the park isn't there any more, or even what if they decided to build on it? We decided against it in the end and when the time came (7 years ago now) we scattered her ashes on Box Hill in Surrey. A favourite place to visit. Sure enough, a few years after that, the park now has houses built on it, just like the barracks have now. Things do change Chris and I suppose we have to accept it - life goes on, and not always for the better. Like you said in your reply to Alan B. "Life was so much.....different and some might say better." I have to say... I'm with you on that (but not the winkle pickers). Thank you Chris, and safe travels.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I’m sorry you lost you’re wife but it’s great when you meet ‘The One’ at such a young age. I would have liked to have done that. I still think about my first love. But as I said in a Sandbag chat, I was never much good at talking to girls or women. Still not. Further, all your special places, now houses that are just built to cram as many in a space as possible. Like a barracks without the community. No kids out playing. There was always kids playing football in the park or riding bikes. Now nothing. I’m not sure we’re progressing in many ways. I wish you happiness Steve despite losing your soulmate. Take care.
It is taking it's time for me to enjoy the lifestyle and a lot longer that I anticipated. I'm there now. I'm living it and now I've slowed down, its much enjoyable. Lets see what winter brings. Thanks for the comment Allen.
Morning Chris. Another great video, you’ll be on our screens three days a week soon, you will be busy! I smiled when you said you had seen some interesting sights on your trip from where you were moored up down to Uxbridge….I paddled part of it yesterday and the VW Touran welded to the back of a narrow boat was, let’s say, special. Those bump caps took me back, they came out years ago on site and the lads quickly bought them to tell the site managers we’ve got our hard hats on (as getting people to wear their hard hat is always a tedious process). Really enjoy the style of these vlogs - easy watching and entertaining. Keep them coming. Thanks.
I think I know that boat with a VW stuck on the back. Was it white? If so, I’m not to far away. I walked past it yesterday. I was going on a recce for a future mooring spot. It’ll be nice to meet up. Thanks for the support and comment.
Hi Chris. Sounds like you are heading towards locks 78 - 80. If you’re planning to moor up for a few days this week let me know and I’ll have a walk down and find you. Be great to see the boat and have a chat.
Ah seeing the Three Tuns unleashed some memories. I worked at Pinewood Studios 2003 - 2005 and got there and back via the Metropolitan line. Ended up missing the last tube because of that pub a few times. The only option then was the night bus.
It's not the same anymore. That town has lost its soul. The Three Tons, The Met - now The Fig Tree are all quiet by comparison. Shame. Thanks for the comment Anthony. Have a great week.
I did wonder why you were a but late in the comments and thought you had gone away. I hope all fixed not. Clearly it has as I've seen the comment from today. Thanks Ian.
A very interesting vlog Chris.. Funny how quickly things can change in a fairly short time frame and what things we remember. When I was a child it seemed like we would have to walk everywhere, didn't moan just got on with it.. Found all those boat's sad just there rotting away when surely someone could make use of them.
Asked my Mum if life was better when she was younger or now. Now she said. I suppose life was more difficult back then. If I was asked the same question, I would say, 'back then'. There are parts of technology that make life better because living is easier but life was better when it was less contested by technology. Strange. Thanks Kath.
Interesting, amusing and very enjoyable. Every week gets better in every sense of the aforementioned. You must be pleased with the results of your blogs? Those of us who look forward to seeing are certainly more than happy. 😁
Hi Chris.... Binge watching to catch up. we are 14 months or so away from our new completed boat. So avid watchers of the process you went through. Anyway...a quick suggestion...you mentioned a sort of reluctence to go down the patreon route (not sure if you have already) Another blog we watch uses a thing called 'buy me a coffee'. Evidently, theres no sign up for givers or need to give details...you felt obliged to give something back with patreon but i'm sure everyone watching would happily 'buy you a coffee'.....(2 sugars and make sure the tide hasn't gone out!!!)...might be worth a look. Keep going and enjoy...we love your little kid in a sweetshop moments. All the best Mike & Jan
Hi Mike and Jan. Thanks for your support. I hope your build goes well and the price you've agreed, won't change. I know, if I had my build again, one, I'd have to find another fit out builder as the prices are now beyond my pocket, basically +£40k to my price and I know all builds are increasing due to costs of steel, lumber and even engines etc. and two, I probably couldn't afford a new boat. I'll be look for top end previously loved. Mad. I'll look into 'Buy Me a Coffee'. Thanks.
Oh what fun we had as children. Simple things that kept us amused. I never had the tyre toy but stream jumping, jumpers for goal posts, kicking a ball about in the road and cars accepted the fact and slowed down to allow you to get out of the way. Life was so much.......different and some might say better. Me, for a start.
Sorry James. I really didn't notice the boats. I'm sure you know how it is when you're filming. Just trying to keep the camera pointing at something was about all I could musta as well as keep the boat in a straight(ish) line. I hope all is well. Must catch up sometime in the future. I know we're in the same(ish) area. I'm sure I'll paths will cross in due course.
the subway you went through to go in to town was many years ago the site of a pub called the seven bells. The most famous client of that Pub was T.E.Lawrence after his days as Lawrence of Arabia when he was trying to be just an ordinary airman.
What a great bit of history Thanks for that. I did know he was an airman at Uxbridge but the pub....great bit of geographic history. Thanks for the lesson.
Hi Chris. What a fabulous video and a great way to take people down memory lane. All your videos are great, but this one was special (to me) as the camp and UXB triggered so many fond memories. I half expected a sqn run to troop past your jaunty parked boat on the canal... but those days have gone now... Great work mate and keep em rolling 👍 Gilly.
Thanks Gilly. Those canal runs were great. I loved them, in hindsight. I never thought I'd be living the life on the canals 20 years later. The towpath is nearly all paved now so it's easier to run on. But the cyclists have become the nuisance now. Electric bikes that whizz far too quickly for us old folk. Hope all is well mate. Take care and thanks for the comment.
Sketchers are mega….started wearing them last year. I’m converted. Wow, that was trip down misery lane…I can’t believe how much the hallowed ground of gods golden acre has changed.
Not only are Sketchers trainers the most comfortable I've had, they are cheaper than the normal Asics shoe I buy. Uxbridge, unrecognisable. If you didn't know it was there, you'd miss it. Cheers Jack.
Did this trip in August all the way to king's Cross and back up to foxton. Some TH-camrs made out it was tough going with weeds and water levels so I was worrying about it but it turned out to be straight forward and very enjoyable. The only problem we contended with was the amount of wacky backy aroma 🙁 mooring in London was plentiful 👍
Thanks Ray. By and large it was good from Foxton. A few tricky bits around Marsworth where water levels were a little low, but since my escapades on the River Soar leading on to the GU, you're right. Not an issue. The weeds were not as bad as some made them out to be. With you on the wacky backy! Not my thing although, I've become to accept it more.
I remember RAF Uxbridge from years gone by. When I was in 1Para we stayed there for some reason cant remember why but I do remember a good night on the Lash 👍I recently went back to Aldershot to Depot Para and that is very much derelict. It a sham it has to change.
It was a great nigh on the lash. I bet you won't have that experience if you went now. I think a lot of areas have changed. Thanks for the comment Peter.
I have family who lived around Uxbridge (now moved further out of town). They liked it, but I was never much of a fan although I can see why you have such strong memories from your military days. I've tried going back to a few places I knew well as a younger man - found it to be slightly melancholy because things seldom change for the better. It looks like Uxbridge has fallen prey to 'coffee culture' so bang goes the variety of shops and the very thing that makes a community. Like you on your boat, Chris, I think the best thing is to keep moving forward and (maybe) leave memories the way they are; happily undisturbed.
I believe I was there at the fag end of a great era. It was packed in the pubs and the hustle and bustle of life was just great. However, like most places, its not my memory that has changed, it is the culture of the place. The shops has gone; well the useful ones anyway. But then, if they were useful, why did they go out of business. I suppose globalisation hasn't helped and the import of cheaper goods. Thats the only town that has a canal near by, so the rest is new. Thanks for the comment.
I can recall Dad doing business in Uxbridge back in the 1960s, can't remember the made, scrap dealers they were. Men's clothing, my menfolk go to Mole Vally Farmers. You take care and thanks for the very interesting vlog.
So True Steve. Unless you have a B&Q, where do you go. The Two Ronnies sketch of Four Candles and Open All Hours. Those shop have just disappeared. It's a real shame and a community has disappeared with it.
I met my WRAF missus at Uxbridge and we did a nostalgia trip a few years ago, when it was in full demolition phase. It looked awful, kinda shattered our memories of the place. Glad to see it’s looking healthier now.
It's hard to picture it as it was now. The roads across the place have given it all a different perspective. St Andrews rd and the road running between the Offs Mess and Sgts' Mess is about all that remains the same. As you say, shattered the memories of a great camp. Thanks for the comment Robert.
I know Dave. The recommendation on its first oil change was after 50 hours. Thereafter 350 hrs or every year. I was planning to keep it as a back up and perhaps I should have but I did filter it and there were a surprising amount of ‘bits’ in it. I guess that’s why it needed changing. The price of the oil too, it killed me.
Hi Chris, another cracking vlog, Alison my partner was born on the camp, her Dad was based there for a number of years in the 60's & 70's, she's going to get her mum to watch....you maybe getting another subscriber !! Regards Mike.
My kids enjoyed it there too. I was able to kick them out after breakfast and they came back when they wanted. Safe environment and a small stream like river to mess about in. Great days for kids. Thanks Micheal.
Aha! There's "Sloe Patrol" and "Serafina" at about 1:34. They seem to be decent folks. I started watching "The Narrowboat that James Built" acouple of years ago when I was recovering from surgery. Hillingdon is one of the places some of my ancestors haunted some centuries ago.
Used to be a great place. It thrived from Thursday till Saturday. Every pub was mobbed and you were sober by the time you got served. All that has now gone and a change of culture has been created. Drinking is no longer cool as the internet is used to find dates, and drinking has beed substituted with another D. I never saw James' Boat, even in the edit. I must watch it. James has even commented to the fact. Thanks Peter.
From Switzerland.. a brilliant smorgasbord today. Loved every bit of it.. Chris. Having left Uk in 1986 I love to visit, but all that fast food and swamping of coffee palaces leaves me cold. Loved the reminising. Old Brunel guy. Feel energised after your video today.. Ta muchness.
Thanks John. The towns have changed so much over the past 20 years. I caught what must have been the fag end of the great era of Uxbridge. It had a great personality. That hill, well incline coming up from Cowley, leading past the halls, was a place I used to take the lads for a bit of phys. Run up the incline and jog down x5. It was a killer as the incline was about 400m. That was part of a 7 miler. Much fitter then. By the way, what drew you to Switzerland?
@@chrismears-inslowtime Chris. I left the UK for a beer in Australia..stayed 14years..10 in Army reserves.. Major Bollocks. Left academia in Australia..20 years in cancer drug development in Swissyland..Kinda retired..
You are close to my origins, brought up in Northolt. Be interesting if you go through there, see my old fishing spots on the canal there when I was a kid. Live in Kent now...
I'm in Hernia Bay. Lived in Northolt from birth to23yrs (got married) Then Eastcote, Peterborough now H.B. Dunroamin now, 69yrs old.@@chrismears-inslowtime
Hi Chris. Great vlogs, watched from the start. Been a great journey for you so far. We hope to join you next August when our boat is launched. Love your sense of humour and your choice of music, can you tell me what was the song title at the beginning of your last vlog please?
Thanks for sticking with it Steve. I hope your build goes well and the launch happens on time. Little tip, boat time + or - 3 months, usually plus 3. The track at the Strat is called Hush You by Velvet Moon. I love it. Next weeks is equal to it.
Hi Chris, Glad to see you getting rid of your oil sensibly and the local WRC.. Have you thought of trying a marina to dispose of the was oil ? It's great to remiss on old haunts and thanks for Uxbridge and Hillingdon as this was my Mum's old haunt in the fifties as her parent used to live in Uxbridge and Mum used to work in Hillingdon Hosp as a Pharmacist where she meet my Dad. There used to be an Akak gun at the top of the road where my Mum lived and My Grandpa had one of the empty brass shell cases all polished up which I've still got.. My Parent's are long gone now and it's just my brothers and I now.. Hope all's going well and All well.. Stay safe, Best Wishes Old Skipper :)
I reckon those Akak guns would have been great fun. I missed the Bofors era by a few years. I would have liked them. I had CVR(T) instead and to be honest, I would have stayed on those light armoured Sqns all my life. I suspect that Akak shell would have been a 40cal. Thanks Skip.
Love your bookshelf! "Guns Germs & Steel" easily makes my top 10 list of best reads. Next to that on my shelves are Violet Moller's "The Map of Knowledge" and two by Stephen Greenblatt, "Will in the World" and "The Swerve". You might like them. (RV Granny)
I've made a note of the book recommendations. Thanks. Kindle is the way forward although, I prefer the paper version. Easier to read. Map of Knowledge sounds interesting.
Hi Chris, really enjoyed your wee tour around Uxbridge, I have only been back to once since I left QCS and the camp was a bit of a building site at the time, certainly changes loads now looks good but expensive!! Lol Had a great time on the Sqn was full of characters and great mates. Good luck to you mate 👍🏻
hi Sean. I think Uxbridge, back in the day was a brilliant camp and a great town. It had already changed when I went back as a FS. That was 3 years later. Hope all is well mate.
@@wayneconnor8772 slim fit are not really for people our age. I think 20-39s only. Anything after looks just wrong. Winkle picker shoes too. I’m pleased I just wear scruffs these days. I’ll look on the website though. Thanks mate.
Love your contact, but (sorry) please slow down your camera panning because it's very hard to watch. I only mean this in a constructive way, because I have enjoyed your content right from the beginning of your journey and your one of the best now in this area since many long timers have moved on.
I agree. I wanted to try out some 'in camera' transitions. They haven't worked. At the start of that vid, I was trying to film and do a U-turn with a boat near the turning point and weeds in the middle. It was going bit wrong too. Thanks for the comment and support. I agree and have decreased the number of times that transition is used. Almost stopped it I think.
@@chrismears-inslowtime a gimbal my be worth investing in for such things. If you get a tripod too one day make sure it's magnetic so it can't fall off the boat.
@@pholland6643 I’ve got both but the gimbal is for the phone and it’s a bit clunky on a boat and the tripod with magnetic legs, well I have tripods but again as a solo boater, it’s a challenge. Easy with two if one talks and the other films. Also, I’m actually still learning. They next few are better, hopefully
Notice you do a lot of stir fry’s Chris, look at a oil that can withstand a hi heat like groundnut or palm oil plus its healthier the old Olivia is great but burns at high temperature mate, only a suggestion of course as it looks very tasty what you cook.
There is a lot about cooking I don't know. I moved from vegetable oil to Olive oil a few years ago, now there are such things like groundnut and palm oil. I understand the burning at high temps might not be useful on a boat with lots of wood. Thanks for the tip GC. I'll look in Tesco today.
Great idea. Just need to find a Pill box or any military installation. could talk for a while about the usefulness of it and the reason why it was positioned where it was. Still, I bet that sort of stuff wouldn't interest many. Thanks for the comment.
@@chrismears-inslowtime would interest lots of people. Its part of the canal system just as much as bridges and locks and pubs and it is our history. Could moor up close by and try and get the camera through the openings and do aerials showing why it was placed there etc.
Gives you mixed emotions dosent it , going back to a former training establishment. I went back to HMS Pembroke (Chatham) a couple years ago . Stunning old Georgian/victorian ? buildings. Still there. But civvyfied , was realy quite upsetting . Especially seeing the parade ground with cars on it. Was sorely tempted to shout at a couple of people sauntering across said parade ground." Double across the Parade ground"..lol. but I didn't. The wife would have clobbered me. So it was very wierd. Bits of litter, music blaring out of someone's flat. Washing hanging out of window's, and no-one checking my pass at the main gate.😒. Asking me why I was adrift. 😆. Good to have memories.
I do like your Navy terms. Adrift, Man Overboard etc. Which have no meaning to the average person who doesn't understand the cultural meanings. Progress, they call it. The trouble with selling off MOD land. If we ever need it back due to another uplift of Military hardware, you can't. I mean, there will never be another war where we will need to re-invest in ships, aircraft and tanks will there! Thanks for the comment Kev.
I don't know if you're superstitious, but my grandma always said it was bad luck to put a pair of new shoes on the table. She never said why it was bad luck if I inadvertently put a pair of new shoes on the table, or what would happen to me if I did. Funny how things stick with you down the years😉
No-one ever told me that and I wonder if a new pair of shoes counts. Maybe it was because of hygiene reasons incase you stood in dog s**t which often happened. Not sure. It hasn't done me any harm but then maybe it has I just don't know. Thanks Ice.
Chris, Hendon & Uxbridge eh - I grew up around Kilburn & Queensbury when I was a Londoner I think they might call it "Brent" now?. - What were you using on the 25m Range .. Browning 9mms? - I'm fully licensed here in NZ, indeed I was the Glock Factory Agent here for a few years & ran a range. Good vlog mate..
Hi Martin. Brent Park just off Hanger Lane on the North Circular. I used to go shopping there if it is the same place. The 25m range was able to take all ammunition up to 7.62mm with GMPG. Although we never used it on a 25m range due to the tunnelling effect. To zero a GMPG on a small barrack range is a bit of a waste of time. The rifle and pistol were fine. Thanks for the comment.
I’m very saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Mother to King Charles III, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and grandmother to all.
Hi Henry. There has been some great speeches in the House of Commons today. I'm sure many people will have a story or two to tell. Mine is being told on Sunday. Not by design but it just turned out that way. Thanks for the message Henry.
Interesting you mention the state of accommodation at RAF Uxbridge. Early on in my career I got skidded to take part in a massive tri-service exercise at Northwood, doing 12 hour shifts down 'The Hole'. We were put up in RAF Stanmore Park, compared to RN accommodation it was a palace, AND there was waiter service in the dining hall!! Worst accom that I've experienced was the army camp at Tidworth. It was like a third world country, and that was the WO's quarters. How did it feel to revisit old haunts? Did you see any ghosts?
I think all RAF accommodation was good by comparison. That isn't a good thing but I understand why that happened. RN spend money on ships and therefore didn't have basses as such to invest in, like the RAF. The Army moved about en mass so why would that Regt want to invest in accn when their Regt wee not going to profit. But if each Regt did it....Win Win. But that Prisoners' Dilemma never really worked on them. The Messes at the time were always like that although the RAF personnel were reducing, the civilian staff, in my opinion were also great. Stanmore Park was a great camp too. Another Housing estate now though. Didn't really visit any old haunts as it's not the same without a few mates to tell stories with. I've laid all the ghost to rest. Thanks Richard.
Recently I had the occasion to pull on the bag of fruit and attend one of those sournful occasions. I looked at me shoes and they were in a sorry state. I've had football boots in better condition. You talk about buying clothes for blokes our age. Believe me mate, shoes are another thing altogether. There's no M&S level, or a top end tailor level of sales available. You wind up in a shoe shop with someone trying to sell you a pair of cut off winkle pickers because that's the fashion these days. YUK! And the big thing is, there's nothing else available or anywhere else to go. You've been done and you know all the others are smirking at you like your an absolute punce.
Top comment Greg. Totally agree and due to the fact I had to wear service issue shoes, I still have some sensible shoes left. Not on the boat of course as I have service issue boots to get through. About 5 pairs. That should last a while at least. I have noticed men at our age, (assume we're similar) wearing those skin tight trousers with suits and as you say with winkle pickers, does look out of place. You only have to look at Rishi Sunak to realise what you may look like. It's not cool to be down with the lads middle aged+.
Great content and sound track
Thanks you Valerie.
Like your volg 👍👍👍
Thanks Thomas.
Chris, thank you mate for the memories, from 1974 I had two “Scaley bratt”, tours, then two of my own in the late 80’s and then late 90’s, all “QCS Regt”, tours. It has changed a lot over the years, it is one of the places I have been able to call home with the life I have had, a shame that has gone also…
To my mind, Uxbridge was a great camp and probably the best UK based Station. I missed it going to Northolt. Good Sqn life too.
👍
There's a difference in the towns. Hemel has better shopping and Uxbridge more coffee and fast food shops. Thanks for the comment Lee.
You need a headband to catch the perspiration
Thanks Ron. Good idea. Another person commented on Vasiline over where the eyebrows would be. I've got Vasliline.
Hi Chris, we enjoyed this one ....Great bit of reminiscing and a fine job done for Uxbridge Tourist Board...well done👏best wishes Lee & Ali
Uxbridge has changed beyond belief as the demographic has changed, let alone the houses on what used to be the RAF camp. Thanks for your support and comment
Hi Chris
Driven past Uxbridge many times on my way to Northwood HQ, spent many hours underground there!
Your Vlog unearthed much nostalgia for me as I witnessed you walking around that what was and that which is now, knowing none of the residents appreciate the history of where they live. Only your memories.
As a Midshipman in the RN, back in 1977, I spent 6mths at HMS VERNON. The base used to be situated at the mouth of Portsmouth Naval Base, to the right as you passed by the fortress where all the crowds gather to cheer the ships as they leave/come home. Right where the Battleship Vanguard went aground, in 1960, on her way to the breakers yard.
HMS Vernon was sold and redeveloped into a beautiful housing/recreational space and I visited it many years later. Just like you I reminisced about what had been so immediately connected with your Vlog.
As a young officer, at HMS Vernon, I got very close to a junior female steward, and like your story about broken wrists and getting the nurse to help out best I say no more, apart from "Liaisons" between junior ranks and officers were deemed totally unacceptable. I met her 14yrs later getting lunch in the Officers mess at Northwood, I as Lt/Cdr and she as a Petty officer, we connected immediately. Both our relationships were in tatters and I will always remember the look in her eyes, and tears, as we again went our own ways! How life could have been different!!!!
Like so many of your subscribers I find your approach to "Utubing" totally refreshing, honest and a joy to watch.
I appreciate this Vlog may have stirred up personal memories but I will always remember "Jill Scott" with so much affection.
Thank you
Mel
Been there in the liaison thing a few times.What could have been but wasn't for a plethora of reasons. I suppose you can only look back with fondness of how life could have turned, perhaps on a sliding door moment, life would have taken a different turn. Who knows what could have happened afterwards.
A nostalgic comment Mel. Thanks for sharing.
Chris, I want to express my sincere condolences to you and your country over the loss of the Queen . . . may she now be able to Rest In Peace. We are all sadden in the States. May the double rainbows give us all the feelings of peace and understanding for the future . . .
An end of an era Ron. I think the speed of which it happened. See PM on Tuesday, passed Thursday. Probably the most famous woman in the world and not many have a bad word. The football stadiums were respectful too. Normally you get a few lunatics but the Man Utd crowd fell silent. Very pleasing. Thanks for the thoughts Ron.
@@chrismears-inslowtime The story you spoke of in a previous episode when you were on the firing line with her asking you a question was quite humors and bare repeating . . . it was a pleasant story. Cheers.
@@ronlandry1352 the full story by chance is Sunday. Not by design I might add. Thanks Ron.
Nostalgia. It's nice to reflect on times gone by Chris so thank you for sharing some of yours. I met my wife at the age of thirteen, on the local park that separated our houses after she moved to our estate. We always said that if anything happened to us that we would have our ashes scattered on that park so we would end up together, where it all started. Years and years later, and after her being diagnosed with cancer, we started to rethink - what if the park isn't there any more, or even what if they decided to build on it? We decided against it in the end and when the time came (7 years ago now) we scattered her ashes on Box Hill in Surrey. A favourite place to visit. Sure enough, a few years after that, the park now has houses built on it, just like the barracks have now. Things do change Chris and I suppose we have to accept it - life goes on, and not always for the better. Like you said in your reply to Alan B. "Life was so much.....different and some might say better." I have to say... I'm with you on that (but not the winkle pickers).
Thank you Chris, and safe travels.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I’m sorry you lost you’re wife but it’s great when you meet ‘The One’ at such a young age. I would have liked to have done that. I still think about my first love. But as I said in a Sandbag chat, I was never much good at talking to girls or women. Still not. Further, all your special places, now houses that are just built to cram as many in a space as possible. Like a barracks without the community. No kids out playing. There was always kids playing football in the park or riding bikes. Now nothing. I’m not sure we’re progressing in many ways. I wish you happiness Steve despite losing your soulmate. Take care.
Watching the building of your narrow boat from the beginning now are you enjoying boat life
It is taking it's time for me to enjoy the lifestyle and a lot longer that I anticipated. I'm there now. I'm living it and now I've slowed down, its much enjoyable. Lets see what winter brings. Thanks for the comment Allen.
Loved reading through the comments, Chris: you certainly stirred up a huge dose of nostalgia and happy memories with this one.
Thanks Martin.
Morning Chris. Another great video, you’ll be on our screens three days a week soon, you will be busy! I smiled when you said you had seen some interesting sights on your trip from where you were moored up down to Uxbridge….I paddled part of it yesterday and the VW Touran welded to the back of a narrow boat was, let’s say, special. Those bump caps took me back, they came out years ago on site and the lads quickly bought them to tell the site managers we’ve got our hard hats on (as getting people to wear their hard hat is always a tedious process). Really enjoy the style of these vlogs - easy watching and entertaining. Keep them coming. Thanks.
I think I know that boat with a VW stuck on the back. Was it white? If so, I’m not to far away. I walked past it yesterday. I was going on a recce for a future mooring spot. It’ll be nice to meet up. Thanks for the support and comment.
Hi Chris. Sounds like you are heading towards locks 78 - 80. If you’re planning to moor up for a few days this week let me know and I’ll have a walk down and find you. Be great to see the boat and have a chat.
Ah seeing the Three Tuns unleashed some memories. I worked at Pinewood Studios 2003 - 2005 and got there and back via the Metropolitan line. Ended up missing the last tube because of that pub a few times. The only option then was the night bus.
It's not the same anymore. That town has lost its soul. The Three Tons, The Met - now The Fig Tree are all quiet by comparison. Shame. Thanks for the comment Anthony. Have a great week.
Man,......we have had issues here some internet,,,,,,some not. What ever, a brilliant video Thank you
I did wonder why you were a but late in the comments and thought you had gone away. I hope all fixed not. Clearly it has as I've seen the comment from today. Thanks Ian.
A very interesting vlog Chris.. Funny how quickly things can change in a fairly short time frame and what things we remember. When I was a child it seemed like we would have to walk everywhere, didn't moan just got on with it.. Found all those boat's sad just there rotting away when surely someone could make use of them.
Asked my Mum if life was better when she was younger or now. Now she said. I suppose life was more difficult back then. If I was asked the same question, I would say, 'back then'. There are parts of technology that make life better because living is easier but life was better when it was less contested by technology. Strange. Thanks Kath.
Interesting, amusing and very enjoyable. Every week gets better in every sense of the aforementioned. You must be pleased with the results of your blogs? Those of us who look forward to seeing are certainly more than happy. 😁
Thanks as always for you support Anthony.
That swan... You know what they say...Big flipper, big...😅😅😅
Small feet ……small shoes.
Hi Chris....
Binge watching to catch up. we are 14 months or so away from our new completed boat. So avid watchers of the process you went through.
Anyway...a quick suggestion...you mentioned a sort of reluctence to go down the patreon route (not sure if you have already) Another blog we watch uses a thing called 'buy me a coffee'. Evidently, theres no sign up for givers or need to give details...you felt obliged to give something back with patreon but i'm sure everyone watching would happily 'buy you a coffee'.....(2 sugars and make sure the tide hasn't gone out!!!)...might be worth a look.
Keep going and enjoy...we love your little kid in a sweetshop moments.
All the best
Mike & Jan
Hi Mike and Jan. Thanks for your support. I hope your build goes well and the price you've agreed, won't change. I know, if I had my build again, one, I'd have to find another fit out builder as the prices are now beyond my pocket, basically +£40k to my price and I know all builds are increasing due to costs of steel, lumber and even engines etc. and two, I probably couldn't afford a new boat. I'll be look for top end previously loved. Mad.
I'll look into 'Buy Me a Coffee'. Thanks.
Chris - The soles of your Skechers reminded me of a childhood memory. We used to get old tyres and roll them down the hill. The was a Good Year.
Oh what fun we had as children. Simple things that kept us amused. I never had the tyre toy but stream jumping, jumpers for goal posts, kicking a ball about in the road and cars accepted the fact and slowed down to allow you to get out of the way. Life was so much.......different and some might say better. Me, for a start.
Hi again Chris great style not so keen on cooking vids tho but never mind will look forward to your next one, keep safe and well. Chris J nottm.
Thanks for the comment. It's not for everyone I know. It's why I'm trying to keep it all segmented. Watch what you like when it comes out.
Mate you cruised right passed me and Rob opposite the B&B with all the canoes outside
Sorry James. I really didn't notice the boats. I'm sure you know how it is when you're filming. Just trying to keep the camera pointing at something was about all I could musta as well as keep the boat in a straight(ish) line. I hope all is well. Must catch up sometime in the future. I know we're in the same(ish) area. I'm sure I'll paths will cross in due course.
the subway you went through to go in to town was many years ago the site of a pub called the seven bells. The most famous client of that Pub was T.E.Lawrence after his days as Lawrence of Arabia when he was trying to be just an ordinary airman.
What a great bit of history Thanks for that. I did know he was an airman at Uxbridge but the pub....great bit of geographic history. Thanks for the lesson.
Very interesting vlog. And of course love your banter with it. Best wishes
Thanks Trev. Appreciate the comment as always.
Hi Chris. What a fabulous video and a great way to take people down memory lane. All your videos are great, but this one was special (to me) as the camp and UXB triggered so many fond memories. I half expected a sqn run to troop past your jaunty parked boat on the canal... but those days have gone now... Great work mate and keep em rolling 👍 Gilly.
Thanks Gilly. Those canal runs were great. I loved them, in hindsight. I never thought I'd be living the life on the canals 20 years later. The towpath is nearly all paved now so it's easier to run on. But the cyclists have become the nuisance now. Electric bikes that whizz far too quickly for us old folk. Hope all is well mate. Take care and thanks for the comment.
I went to Brunel University from 1979 to 1983 so I know the Uxbridge, Hillingdon and Southall area quite well
If you went back there now I think you’ll notice a massive change Peter.
Sketchers are mega….started wearing them last year. I’m converted. Wow, that was trip down misery lane…I can’t believe how much the hallowed ground of gods golden acre has changed.
Not only are Sketchers trainers the most comfortable I've had, they are cheaper than the normal Asics shoe I buy. Uxbridge, unrecognisable. If you didn't know it was there, you'd miss it. Cheers Jack.
Did this trip in August all the way to king's Cross and back up to foxton. Some TH-camrs made out it was tough going with weeds and water levels so I was worrying about it but it turned out to be straight forward and very enjoyable. The only problem we contended with was the amount of wacky backy aroma 🙁 mooring in London was plentiful 👍
Thanks Ray. By and large it was good from Foxton. A few tricky bits around Marsworth where water levels were a little low, but since my escapades on the River Soar leading on to the GU, you're right. Not an issue. The weeds were not as bad as some made them out to be. With you on the wacky backy! Not my thing although, I've become to accept it more.
I remember RAF Uxbridge from years gone by. When I was in 1Para we stayed there for some reason cant remember why but I do remember a good night on the Lash 👍I recently went back to Aldershot to Depot Para and that is very much derelict. It a sham it has to change.
It was a great nigh on the lash. I bet you won't have that experience if you went now. I think a lot of areas have changed. Thanks for the comment Peter.
I have family who lived around Uxbridge (now moved further out of town). They liked it, but I was never much of a fan although I can see why you have such strong memories from your military days. I've tried going back to a few places I knew well as a younger man - found it to be slightly melancholy because things seldom change for the better. It looks like Uxbridge has fallen prey to 'coffee culture' so bang goes the variety of shops and the very thing that makes a community.
Like you on your boat, Chris, I think the best thing is to keep moving forward and (maybe) leave memories the way they are; happily undisturbed.
I believe I was there at the fag end of a great era. It was packed in the pubs and the hustle and bustle of life was just great. However, like most places, its not my memory that has changed, it is the culture of the place. The shops has gone; well the useful ones anyway. But then, if they were useful, why did they go out of business. I suppose globalisation hasn't helped and the import of cheaper goods. Thats the only town that has a canal near by, so the rest is new. Thanks for the comment.
Live near it , its also fallen to the strong addictive drugs, so many hang out by the church in the centre of town
@@valis5503 yes. I agree. Although the phone boxes opposite had a phone in them, they are generally used as a toilet as they stink a bit!
I can recall Dad doing business in Uxbridge back in the 1960s, can't remember the made, scrap dealers they were. Men's clothing, my menfolk go to Mole Vally Farmers. You take care and thanks for the very interesting vlog.
Thanks Christine. Mole Valley Farmers, great site. Just had a look and I've book marked it.
Not an ironmongers, butcher, baker or candlestick maker in sight.
So True Steve. Unless you have a B&Q, where do you go. The Two Ronnies sketch of Four Candles and Open All Hours. Those shop have just disappeared. It's a real shame and a community has disappeared with it.
I met my WRAF missus at Uxbridge and we did a nostalgia trip a few years ago, when it was in full demolition phase. It looked awful, kinda shattered our memories of the place. Glad to see it’s looking healthier now.
It's hard to picture it as it was now. The roads across the place have given it all a different perspective. St Andrews rd and the road running between the Offs Mess and Sgts' Mess is about all that remains the same. As you say, shattered the memories of a great camp. Thanks for the comment Robert.
Chris that oil was good for another 500 hrs, clear as mud when you poured it but not black.
I know Dave. The recommendation on its first oil change was after 50 hours. Thereafter 350 hrs or every year. I was planning to keep it as a back up and perhaps I should have but I did filter it and there were a surprising amount of ‘bits’ in it. I guess that’s why it needed changing. The price of the oil too, it killed me.
Hi Chris, another cracking vlog, Alison my partner was born on the camp, her Dad was based there for a number of years in the 60's & 70's, she's going to get her mum to watch....you maybe getting another subscriber !!
Regards Mike.
My kids enjoyed it there too. I was able to kick them out after breakfast and they came back when they wanted. Safe environment and a small stream like river to mess about in. Great days for kids. Thanks Micheal.
Love your videos thank you .
Thank you Lynne.
Aha! There's "Sloe Patrol" and "Serafina" at about 1:34. They seem to be decent folks. I started watching "The Narrowboat that James Built" acouple of years ago when I was recovering from surgery.
Hillingdon is one of the places some of my ancestors haunted some centuries ago.
James and Rob are good blokes 'ey.
You’d have known sloe patrol he’s the the guy always posing without his top on 😂😂
@@gc9017 Rob is the human submersible.
Used to be a great place. It thrived from Thursday till Saturday. Every pub was mobbed and you were sober by the time you got served. All that has now gone and a change of culture has been created. Drinking is no longer cool as the internet is used to find dates, and drinking has beed substituted with another D.
I never saw James' Boat, even in the edit. I must watch it. James has even commented to the fact. Thanks Peter.
it does appear that way GC. If I were that slim, perhaps I would go more shirtless.
I do feel like I am watching the generation game, with the conveyor belt, as you move around Uxbridge
Yes now you’ve said that. Good observation
From Switzerland.. a brilliant smorgasbord today. Loved every bit of it.. Chris. Having left Uk in 1986 I love to visit, but all that fast food and swamping of coffee palaces leaves me cold. Loved the reminising. Old Brunel guy. Feel energised after your video today.. Ta muchness.
Thanks John. The towns have changed so much over the past 20 years. I caught what must have been the fag end of the great era of Uxbridge. It had a great personality. That hill, well incline coming up from Cowley, leading past the halls, was a place I used to take the lads for a bit of phys. Run up the incline and jog down x5. It was a killer as the incline was about 400m. That was part of a 7 miler. Much fitter then.
By the way, what drew you to Switzerland?
@@chrismears-inslowtime Chris. I left the UK for a beer in Australia..stayed 14years..10 in Army reserves.. Major Bollocks. Left academia in Australia..20 years in cancer drug development in Swissyland..Kinda retired..
@@johnharrison9317 wow. Great career.
@@chrismears-inslowtime I was thinking the same for you...:-)
You are close to my origins, brought up in Northolt. Be interesting if you go through there, see my old fishing spots on the canal there when I was a kid. Live in Kent now...
I was brought up in Kent. Where about you living now? Plan do do that area in the future. I was at RAF Northolt for a few years.
I'm in Hernia Bay. Lived in Northolt from birth to23yrs (got married) Then Eastcote, Peterborough now H.B. Dunroamin now, 69yrs old.@@chrismears-inslowtime
Good job your not superstitious, new shoes on a table and all that. (lol)
Never heard of that one. So, good job I'm not(ish). Does it count that they haven't been used yet? Thanks Mark.
@@chrismears-inslowtime Its worse if they are brand new, anyway like yourself I don't Believe in that cods wallop, touch wood. 🤣
Hi Chris. Great vlogs, watched from the start. Been a great journey for you so far. We hope to join you next August when our boat is launched. Love your sense of humour and your choice of music, can you tell me what was the song title at the beginning of your last vlog please?
Thanks for sticking with it Steve. I hope your build goes well and the launch happens on time. Little tip, boat time + or - 3 months, usually plus 3.
The track at the Strat is called Hush You by Velvet Moon. I love it. Next weeks is equal to it.
Hi Chris, Glad to see you getting rid of your oil sensibly and the local WRC.. Have you thought of trying a marina to dispose of the was oil ? It's great to remiss on old haunts and thanks for Uxbridge and Hillingdon as this was my Mum's old haunt in the fifties as her parent used to live in Uxbridge and Mum used to work in Hillingdon Hosp as a Pharmacist where she meet my Dad. There used to be an Akak gun at the top of the road where my Mum lived and My Grandpa had one of the empty brass shell cases all polished up which I've still got.. My Parent's are long gone now and it's just my brothers and I now.. Hope all's going well and All well.. Stay safe, Best Wishes Old Skipper :)
I reckon those Akak guns would have been great fun. I missed the Bofors era by a few years. I would have liked them. I had CVR(T) instead and to be honest, I would have stayed on those light armoured Sqns all my life. I suspect that Akak shell would have been a 40cal. Thanks Skip.
Love your bookshelf! "Guns Germs & Steel" easily makes my top 10 list of best reads. Next to that on my shelves are Violet Moller's "The Map of Knowledge" and two by Stephen Greenblatt, "Will in the World" and "The Swerve". You might like them. (RV Granny)
I've made a note of the book recommendations. Thanks. Kindle is the way forward although, I prefer the paper version. Easier to read. Map of Knowledge sounds interesting.
Hi Chris, really enjoyed your wee tour around Uxbridge, I have only been back to once since I left QCS and the camp was a bit of a building site at the time, certainly changes loads now looks good but expensive!! Lol
Had a great time on the Sqn was full of characters and great mates.
Good luck to you mate 👍🏻
hi Sean. I think Uxbridge, back in the day was a brilliant camp and a great town. It had already changed when I went back as a FS. That was 3 years later. Hope all is well mate.
Hi Chris thanks for the tour of Uxbridge interesting to see it now I had many a great weekend there 👍
Thanks Wayne. Some of the pubs are now mainly restaurants. Being a snappy dresser, where do you shop?
@@chrismears-inslowtime mainly Pretty Green on line when they have a sale on saying I have to avoid the slim fit these days 😂
@@wayneconnor8772 slim fit are not really for people our age. I think 20-39s only. Anything after looks just wrong. Winkle picker shoes too. I’m pleased I just wear scruffs these days. I’ll look on the website though. Thanks mate.
@@chrismears-inslowtime they mainly do smart casual don’t think think they cater for outdoor boating types with a bit of a Wok 😂
Thank you for a look around your old stomping ground at Uxbridge. Sir Keith Park in a Park. I wonder if anyone there knows who he was. Cheers
Next time i stop in Uxbridge I'll do a piece on the 11Gp Bunker. It'll be worth a vlog I think. Thanks Greg.
Love your contact, but (sorry) please slow down your camera panning because it's very hard to watch. I only mean this in a constructive way, because I have enjoyed your content right from the beginning of your journey and your one of the best now in this area since many long timers have moved on.
I agree. I wanted to try out some 'in camera' transitions. They haven't worked. At the start of that vid, I was trying to film and do a U-turn with a boat near the turning point and weeds in the middle. It was going bit wrong too. Thanks for the comment and support. I agree and have decreased the number of times that transition is used. Almost stopped it I think.
@@chrismears-inslowtime a gimbal my be worth investing in for such things. If you get a tripod too one day make sure it's magnetic so it can't fall off the boat.
@@pholland6643 I’ve got both but the gimbal is for the phone and it’s a bit clunky on a boat and the tripod with magnetic legs, well I have tripods but again as a solo boater, it’s a challenge. Easy with two if one talks and the other films. Also, I’m actually still learning. They next few are better, hopefully
Notice you do a lot of stir fry’s Chris, look at a oil that can withstand a hi heat like groundnut or palm oil plus its healthier the old Olivia is great but burns at high temperature mate, only a suggestion of course as it looks very tasty what you cook.
There is a lot about cooking I don't know. I moved from vegetable oil to Olive oil a few years ago, now there are such things like groundnut and palm oil. I understand the burning at high temps might not be useful on a boat with lots of wood. Thanks for the tip GC. I'll look in Tesco today.
@@chrismears-inslowtime only a tip mate like I said your food looks good I use olive oil 90% of the time, looking forward to food Friday 👍🏻
Some people post about bridges, some about best pub grub. You could have a look at all the pill boxes along the canals
Great idea. Just need to find a Pill box or any military installation. could talk for a while about the usefulness of it and the reason why it was positioned where it was. Still, I bet that sort of stuff wouldn't interest many. Thanks for the comment.
@@chrismears-inslowtime would interest lots of people. Its part of the canal system just as much as bridges and locks and pubs and it is our history. Could moor up close by and try and get the camera through the openings and do aerials showing why it was placed there etc.
Gives you mixed emotions dosent it , going back to a former training establishment. I went back to HMS Pembroke (Chatham) a couple years ago . Stunning old Georgian/victorian ? buildings. Still there. But civvyfied , was realy quite upsetting . Especially seeing the parade ground with cars on it. Was sorely tempted to shout at a couple of people sauntering across said parade ground." Double across the Parade ground"..lol. but I didn't. The wife would have clobbered me. So it was very wierd. Bits of litter, music blaring out of someone's flat. Washing hanging out of window's, and no-one checking my pass at the main gate.😒. Asking me why I was adrift. 😆. Good to have memories.
I do like your Navy terms. Adrift, Man Overboard etc. Which have no meaning to the average person who doesn't understand the cultural meanings. Progress, they call it. The trouble with selling off MOD land. If we ever need it back due to another uplift of Military hardware, you can't. I mean, there will never be another war where we will need to re-invest in ships, aircraft and tanks will there!
Thanks for the comment Kev.
I don't know if you're superstitious, but my grandma always said it was bad luck to put a pair of new shoes on the table. She never said why it was bad luck if I inadvertently put a pair of new shoes on the table, or what would happen to me if I did. Funny how things stick with you down the years😉
No-one ever told me that and I wonder if a new pair of shoes counts. Maybe it was because of hygiene reasons incase you stood in dog s**t which often happened. Not sure. It hasn't done me any harm but then maybe it has I just don't know. Thanks Ice.
Chris, Hendon & Uxbridge eh - I grew up around Kilburn & Queensbury when I was a Londoner I think they might call it "Brent" now?. - What were you using on the 25m Range .. Browning 9mms? - I'm fully licensed here in NZ, indeed I was the Glock Factory Agent here for a few years & ran a range. Good vlog mate..
Hi Martin. Brent Park just off Hanger Lane on the North Circular. I used to go shopping there if it is the same place. The 25m range was able to take all ammunition up to 7.62mm with GMPG. Although we never used it on a 25m range due to the tunnelling effect. To zero a GMPG on a small barrack range is a bit of a waste of time.
The rifle and pistol were fine. Thanks for the comment.
I’m very saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Mother to King Charles III, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and grandmother to all.
Hi Henry. There has been some great speeches in the House of Commons today. I'm sure many people will have a story or two to tell. Mine is being told on Sunday. Not by design but it just turned out that way. Thanks for the message Henry.
Interesting you mention the state of accommodation at RAF Uxbridge. Early on in my career I got skidded to take part in a massive tri-service exercise at Northwood, doing 12 hour shifts down 'The Hole'. We were put up in RAF Stanmore Park, compared to RN accommodation it was a palace, AND there was waiter service in the dining hall!!
Worst accom that I've experienced was the army camp at Tidworth. It was like a third world country, and that was the WO's quarters.
How did it feel to revisit old haunts? Did you see any ghosts?
I think all RAF accommodation was good by comparison. That isn't a good thing but I understand why that happened. RN spend money on ships and therefore didn't have basses as such to invest in, like the RAF. The Army moved about en mass so why would that Regt want to invest in accn when their Regt wee not going to profit. But if each Regt did it....Win Win. But that Prisoners' Dilemma never really worked on them.
The Messes at the time were always like that although the RAF personnel were reducing, the civilian staff, in my opinion were also great.
Stanmore Park was a great camp too. Another Housing estate now though.
Didn't really visit any old haunts as it's not the same without a few mates to tell stories with. I've laid all the ghost to rest. Thanks Richard.
Mabey not Everton supporters, could be they just like mints 😂
Good call Steve.
nnn Not a toilet it is a disguised TARDIS 🙂
Dr. Phoo. (Sorry it was too tempting)
TURDIS perhaps?
Brilliant!
Recently I had the occasion to pull on the bag of fruit and attend one of those sournful occasions. I looked at me shoes and they were in a sorry state. I've had football boots in better condition. You talk about buying clothes for blokes our age. Believe me mate, shoes are another thing altogether. There's no M&S level, or a top end tailor level of sales available. You wind up in a shoe shop with someone trying to sell you a pair of cut off winkle pickers because that's the fashion these days. YUK! And the big thing is, there's nothing else available or anywhere else to go. You've been done and you know all the others are smirking at you like your an absolute punce.
Top comment Greg. Totally agree and due to the fact I had to wear service issue shoes, I still have some sensible shoes left. Not on the boat of course as I have service issue boots to get through. About 5 pairs. That should last a while at least.
I have noticed men at our age, (assume we're similar) wearing those skin tight trousers with suits and as you say with winkle pickers, does look out of place. You only have to look at Rishi Sunak to realise what you may look like. It's not cool to be down with the lads middle aged+.