Diary summary week ending 15th February 2026

[Gillg]

Yes, the building societies didn't take the wife's earnings into account as a rule when we got married in 1968, as she might get pregnant and stop earning.  We found it particularly annoying, as I was in a better paid job than my husband at that time

We set up something we called the Holiday and Present savings account and put away a small amount of money each month, so we always had something to fall back on for birthday and Christmas presents and the very occasional holiday. As it was an interest-bearing account (Burnley Building Society, from memory) we made a little bit of interest at times, too.  

[radstockjeff]

We were a little more fortunate in the housing scheme of things. I bought a piece of land for £850 and we set to and built our own place with help from family (Dad and brother) and friends in the trade. I had served my apprenticeship as a bricklayer/mason so that part was easy. It took us about 16 months and was ready to move into when we got married. I think the build cost was about £3500.(1969/70).

[louisa maud]

Well done Jeff.

LM

[louisa maud]

Gillg
I had a budget account I  managed myself,  estimated bills and put a certain amount in a building society every month by standing  order, by the end of the financial year I had made a profit, household bills, holidays and Christmas was included,  worked well for us and I continued it for years and years, its called "money management," pity it isn't taught in schools

LM.