Figures just released in the Halifax Money Survey show a surge this year in the amount of pocket money children are given to spend to £6.25 a week, reversing a seven year decline. The district's residents gave their views on the news.
Epping High Street Gary Hawes, 37, High Street, Epping
“It does not surprise me. I think for some people it is seen as fashionable to give their kids more money, a kind of keeping up with the Joneses.”
Sue Erswell, 54, High Street, Epping
“The cost of things is going up much higher. Most people make sacrifices to give their kids what they want so it is not really surprising to me.”
Marie Byrne, 30, Morgan Crescent, Theydon Bois
“It does not surprise me because everything is so much more expensive. £6 a week does seem like a lot to me though for a child.”
Lisa Mitham, 39, Beaconsfield Road, Epping
“Given the lack of jobs about it really does surprise me. I think people are just trying to keep up with everyone else.”
Peggy McCarthy, 80, Lower Swaines, Epping
“Where have they got the money for all this? I suppose people are more easy come easy go with their money now, they are not as careful as they used to be.”
Joanne Lewis, 41, Kings Terrace, Ongar
“It does not surprise me because everything is so expensive now. If kids want to buy some clothes or go to the cinema you have to give them more just so they afford it.”
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