First Day At Work

When I left school at age fifteen years This brave new world held many fears. I got a job from the schools careers man, I was going to be a trainee electrician. Turners Asbestos Cement in Trafford Park Was where I was to train to become a spark, Thoughts of a holiday soon fade away Out of school on Friday, work on the Monday . All dressed in my best, I thought I looked a catch Black pants and jacket and shoes to match. Walking down the street I felt rather smug Army surplus backpack with my book and mug, Cornbeef butties, milk and sugar in my brew can, Going for the bus felt just like a grown up man. Only when I finally got to work disaster struck, Within minutes I was covered in asbestos muck. It being my first day,no overalls 'til Tuesday. Working in the cutting room all day, Oh man! The place was thick with dust and no extractor fan. When I walked the gauntlet out of work that night, From head to foot I must have looked a sight. No one more embarrassed than me that day, Folk all laughed at the ghost coming their way. Jacket and pants were only fit for the bin. To add to the shame all Mum did was grin. © Dave Timperley 27 December 2016