WITH regard to the letter from N Bates, (Letters, February 9), let’s get something straight right here.

I left school when I was 15 and have worked and paid taxes ever since, as well as fitting in 18 years serving my country in the armed forces.

All this time my taxes were going in to the pot that was looking after other people; I’m not crying about it, my generation just got on and made the best of it.

So Mr N Bates, I have already paid my way and now I live on what pension I get and I am grateful for any small perks my government or council deems to give me.

As for the car, I don’t drink or smoke that’s why I can afford a car (a 2005 model).

M Sherry, Highthorn Road, Huntington, York.