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“It’s a great life but don’t expect to make a fortune,” was the advice when I started out in the business.

I began a three-year indentured traineeship with the Sleaford Standard, and later the Lincolnshire Echo, at a starting wage of £4,800 back in 1989 after getting four A-levels.

The low wage was par for the course, because, as the editor said: “We’re paying an awful lot to train you and get you through these exams.”And he was right.

Two three-month block release courses in Sheffield, a week-long refresher course, all those hotel bills, countless shorthand lessons and registration for all those exams.

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