I HAVE been in the unfortunate position of needing a plasterer now for around six weeks.

At first I had a couple of plasterers round to look at the job I needed doing, one decided not to get back to me with a quote, the other gave me a quote and said he could start in two weeks.

I got the rooms ready, cluttering up the rest of my house with all the kids' toys and all the wife's rubbish, but he never arrived.

Many phone calls later, he phoned back to say he could come in a week or so. He didn't, so I thought to myself, why? Maybe the job was too big?

So I decided to have a go at dry-lining the walls with plasterboard myself. It wasn't easy but I've managed to do it.

I filled in all the joints and put the beading on. All that was left was for the plasterboards to be skimmed so my wife could paint it.

Expert

But I decided it still needed an expert hand to 'finish' the job.

Again I rang around about a dozen or so plasterers. They are all booked up for weeks! Is there a shortage? If there is then why isn't anywhere running training courses.

Not everyone wants to be a typist or computer operator but there are many courses for these. Are we in danger of our trades drying up completely?

Why can't schools train young people to learn these trades?

I remember wasting my time learning subjects that I've never used since leaving school and doubt I ever will. I am sure some children would thrive learning this and other valuable trades and the country would be better for it.

Remember, the devil makes work for idle hands.

Think of the pride these kids would have. It may turn some of them away from a life of crime!

PS If there are any plasterers out there who would like to help me, please phone me on 01606 783066.

GEOFF TREASURE

Winnington