Family Memories Birmingham Overview

New Development in employment and a home move and Retirement

In 1966 an opportunity occurred to purchase a more convenient and better house. It was an older type, well constructed and well suited for our requirements. It faced the fields and allotments where so much of my time was spent. It was conveniently near to my wife's mother so that the necessary attention to her wants could be seen to by her daughter, my wife. Although we had saved sufficient for a so-called "modern" house, this one suited us admirably and the choice was one for which we have no regrets.

My job had become my own responsibility. With a staff of 25 the weekly and monthly pay-rolls had to be produced promptly and without fail. We used National accounting machines and other mechanical aids. Millions of pounds over each year were drawn and distributed not only to employees but also to very, very many other destinations in the form of Income Tax, National Insurance, Welfare Schemes and other deductions. Every penny had to be accounted for and records kept.

Decimalisation took place and with the usual demanding time-tables to be adhered to, conversion had to be organised and systems changed.

At my age of 59/60 a new aspect had arisen. Time had not stood still and computers were now becoming installed for business purposes. The Electricity Board was amongst those to consider their use and it was decided to change the Salaries Pensions and Wages work to be performed on them. Once more in addition to the usual continuity of the job, it was my lot to organise and carry out the conversion of all the details and records to the computer codes. The Staff to accomplish this was at peak a further 20 in addition to my usual number of about 25.

For myself I could have retired at age 60 but I stayed on to see this work carried through. Nearing age 61, all was transferred over and my retirement took place. The new HQ was at Kingswinford. I was fortunate at my age that the choice of retirement rather than transfer was available. It was extremely onerous for my younger assistants who now had to travel from Birmingham each day or sell up and move with their families to make a new start many miles away.

So retirement came and with it a most welcome release from responsibility and worry of work. The earlier age of 61 has given chance to do things which at a later age can be difficult.

To date I have had twelve years of retirement, my own master and freedom unlimited.

After all this writing you must excuse me now. I must go to my garden and greenhouse and my bees, or maybe a visit to the library or a trip further afield. The house and its frailties call for attention. There are books to be read. I might even just sit and think or even just sit might be my choice.