Grooming routine that was the pits!

DURING the few, short ‘grown-up’ years before our eldest son left the family nest, he acquired a succession of Mini cars, all of which appeared to need constant attention, both to the engine and the chassis.

A spare engine appeared in the garage, an exhaust system was concealed behind the shed and there was a collection of wheels, tyres and other spare parts which, like our son, were covered in a film of black grease.

One day, however, our lad arrived home early from work carrying, to our surprise, a cellophane- wrapped, new white shirt.

Steam and scrubbing noises emanated from the shower for some considerable time until, at length, a spotless apparition emerged with hair combed, and gleaming white shirt draped over his shoulders. Asked if he wanted something to eat, son declined, explaining that ‘we’ would get something to eat later.

All was now revealed! The attractive Diane had come to live over the road and, coincidentally, her father had a well-equipped workshop!

Son’s bedroom was in a reasonable state, owing to his mother’s firm hand. It did, however, contain a variety of motor accessories and patent repair preparations and now, a new deodorant spray.

Just before departing for his date, son hurriedly picked up what he thought was the new deodorant spray can and commenced treating his armpit. The swearwords which followed were loud and unrepeatable — it was a can of black paint!

Mike Nelson, Saffron Walden, Essex.