Michael kicked his heels as the assistant neatly placed each item into a large carrier bag. She made small talk with his mother about how good a school Ashford is and how well her son has settled in. Karen paid for the items before passing Michael the carrier’s bags which held his new uniform. “Thank you very much.” She smiled at the assistant, before pushing her son towards the door.

“You’re welcome, call again.” The lady replied. “And you have fun at Ashford.” She said to the young Michael as he glanced back.

Michael smiled nervously and said thank you, before being shoved out of the door and onto the main street.

He was instantly faced with a group of boys from his former junior school. “Oh, Mike’s been to Parker Richard’s… Have you got your culottes and leotard in there?” One teased, kicking his bags.

Michael blushed profusely. “They’re shorts!” He blasted back. “and no… we don’t wear leotards!” He insisted.

“Come along Michael.” His mother instructed. “Take no notice of them.” She advised.