Studentindebt/gonso
thanks to you both for taking the trouble to give me such detailed replies. Sounds as though there is the ever present element of luck,timing and what floats your boat with this and, of course, if you don't ask you don't get!
Even working hard 200 miles from home for a week at a time is a step up from what is currently on offer with my present employer. At least I've now got some good pointers to help me make choices with Thomson if/when the time comes. I'll let you know how it goes
