Courtesy of Wallace Greenslade I went to several of the Goon Show recordings in the late 50s – never to be forgotten – wish I’d had a cassette recorder and camera then!!:D

Kev – I don’t live in a deprived area and no one knocked on my door either…..I think the apathy is due to the fact that many people do not believe their vote will make any difference. AV had everything to do with the coalition stitch up and nothing to do with a genuine desire for electoral reform. Those that want it want PR, those that don’t want the status quo, so AV was always going to fall between the two stools.

I don’t think AV ever had a prayer, did it?

My son is well grown up but given the choice I would not hesitate to put my grandson through it.

Which is, for me, that 18 months square bashing, learning about discipline, respect and loyalty might be rather more beneficial than swanning around the world having a “gap” year off. For those “less advantaged” the same criteria apply and during the 18 months all of them should learn a skill or trade. No one is suggesting they cold be sent to the “front line” but contributing to the support of the highly trained servicemen in the field they could make a useful contribution.

I’ve never been stabbed, so can I still contribute? I thought the OP had asked us about national Service…..:confused:

“….. but is particularly beloved by the Americans, probaly because all they see is the spiritual crap.”

And Prince Big -Ears of Wales…….:diablo:

“…….after a hard days work on the forum.”

:D:D