THE credit crunch holds no fear for Louise Watkinson.
With the help of a lifetime’s experience of thrift – and a few chickens – the operations manager is more ready than most to weather a plunging economy.
“I get it from my mum, I think,” admits the 36-year-old from Ellesmere Port.
“When I was growing up she was very thrifty and really knew how to make the most of things.
“Of course, as a teenager, I used to roll my eyes when my dad complained about me taking too long in the shower. I just didn’t see his point.
“Now I know exactly where he was coming from and it’s me watching how much water I use. Things have come full circle.”
Although chickens were never part of her childhood.
“I only got them a couple of years ago, they cost about £10 each and they’re brilliant.
“I have fresh eggs every day which is great because I bake. I also give eggs away to the neighbours and they look after the chickens when I am away.”
She says anyone can keep chickens no matter what their garden size.
“You can buy a special coop called an eggloo and just have a couple. They’re so easy to keep and really friendly.”
She admits the older she has become the more conscious she is of watching the pennies.
“It’s at the front of most people’s minds these days but to be honest I’ve been doing it for years.
“Being thrifty takes a bit of planning but it’s worth it.”
