Geoff Capes Quotes

I like paper statements rather than relying on computers. I feel more in control if my account details and transactions are broken down on paper.

When you experience having nothing you value everything - and that applies to all aspects of life.

Being born not long after the war meant that money was tight. I grew up in a rural corner of Lincolnshire and my father worked on local farms. Being one of nine kids meant we didn't have much.

I hate my Visa card but have to use it for diesel, insurance and big items. I prefer paying by cash whenever possible because that way I feel as if I've got a better grasp on what I'm spending.

I bought my first house when I was 24 for £19,500 and it was sold two years ago for £256,000. I've always made profit on my houses.

One thing which frustrates me about state pensions is the disparity between EU countries.

During my early days as a sportsman and early career as a policeman, things were tight. In athletics I competed as an amateur and, although I might have received some expenses, very little came my way in earnings.

I've coached people who were ranked number one in the country but didn't get any support while other areas of sport got medium to full funding, even though the individuals had no hope of getting on to the rostrum.

In my view, the money is poorly spent and given willy-nilly to people unlikely to get on the winning rostrum.

I don't spend and save whenever I have spare cash. I dislike people who boast about money.

I prefer to give money to the person who's provided the good service. But I never tip at hotels, I think they overcharge anyway. But anything which is value for money will get my vote.

If you've been frugal during your life and tried to save, you're penalised by the tax system. You pay tax on your wages, your savings and even your private pension.

It seems that nearly every week there is a problem where information is leaked or computers hacked. I'm conscious of keeping my details as safe as possible. I might be old but I'm still bright and prefer to go into my local branch and see a face.