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

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.

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

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.

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.