There’s a shortage of scaffolders. I can’t think why. It’s incredibly hard physical work, doubtless doesn’t pay enough and requires real skill to get right. Scaffolding was part of my dad’s and grandad’s business, so I did it for a while, rather badly. After a torrid few months, I slowly got strong enough to make a contribution. The first time I lifted a 21ft scaffold pole on my own was a proud day indeed. Now, I can’t even pull one off the back of a truck – this I know, because I’ve tried, being in the habit of talking to any scaffolders who can spare the time for a chat and enjoy scoffing at my........

© The Guardian