01/08/2026
Two young lads knocked on my door today... and took me straight back to my childhood. ❤️
A few days ago, I messaged someone on Facebook about getting my car washed and received a very professional reply.
Today, two young lads walked into the takeaway and asked if they could speak to the boss.
I assumed they were looking for a job.
They weren't.
They were here to wash my car.
And just like that, I was ten years old again.
Summer holidays used to mean early mornings, holiday cartoons on TV, then straight out the door with a bucket and sponge. I'd spend the day washing cars, cutting grass and squeezing in as much football as I could before Mum came looking for and it was home for dinner.
I wasn't trying to become a millionaire. I just wanted enough money to buy the things every kid dreamed about.
A pair of Nike trainers.
A new game.
Eventually, I saved enough to buy my Sega Mega Drive. (Although, if I'm honest, I still think my Commodore 64 was better!)
Watching these boys today reminded me that some things never change.
They're polite, respectful, hardworking and far more organised than I ever was. I had a sponge and a bucket. They've got proper equipment, a plan and the confidence to knock on doors and earn their own money.
When they finished, I paid them. Then I watched them walk into Azaad to spend the money they'd just worked so hard to earn.
I couldn't let that happen.
Their meal was on me.
Not because they asked.
But because young people with that kind of work ethic deserve to be encouraged.
To the boys... thank you for doing a fantastic job.
And to your parents... you should be incredibly proud. You've raised respectful young men who aren't waiting for opportunities to come to them—they're out there creating their own.
I have no doubt they'll go on to do great things
