THERE are some situations in life when I have to admit complete ignorance about what is going on.

Going to get my haircut (so many questions) is one, but possibly even worse is taking the car to the garage.

At the moment I have a problem with my car which, according to the experts, could be anything from a worn tyre to a complete breakdown of all systems.

The mechanic mutters a series of phrases which could be prayers in ancient Hebrew for all I understand about them. Transmissions, crankshafts. Is this some mystical incantation to make the car well?

I blame the education system. Frankly if our teachers had spent less time muttering about the economic life of eighteenth century Britain and more on the various uses of a spanner, I would not now be facing a huge bill and a long weary journey to work by bus.

It's time for our education system to get more practical. In the meantime if anyone knows a good cheap mechanic, please let them give me a ring.