But Steve, I'm not voicing an opinion on the attractiveness or otherwise of tattoos etc. I have seen and admired the most strange and bizarre body art and hairstyles in W Africa. I do not look down on anyone who presents themselves in any fashionable or bizarre way. MY point is that on a very limited budget, one cannot afford to spend much-needed family money on such things. Tattoos are very expensive. So are cigarettes. And convenience meals... And rather than 24 sugary doughnuts, one would be better advised to choose some fresh food with more value than pure sugar and fat for growing children.

And I agree with you that we are all bombarded with promotions for unhealthy and expensive food items. And that Cookery is no longer taught well, if at all, in school.

This is exactly why I am saying that guidance and education is much needed to help folk budget better and spend their money wisely. I notice that there are some adverts on TV now about healthy eating options and getting more vegetables/fruit onto the table. Our Tesco offers free fruit for children (small apples,oranges etc on a stand at the door) I don't think it is Poverty which is the main stumbling block. It is Ignorance. I am blaming society for that, not the shoppers at Asda.