Many old Wintonians have uttered the words “once you’ve been to Winchester, you’ll never want to leave” repeatedly over the last few years to me.

Admittedly, with the present phenomenal road works, long peak time queues for the barriers at the train station, and hills that encapsulate the city on all sides, only the fittest and smartest have the option of getting out regularly.

Being one such hardy soul, I made it to London in one piece without too much effort today, but for all the lights, glamour and incessant coffee shops promising a sensory, relaxing experience (just a tea will do me, ta) I’m happiest at home in Winchester.

So, to hear this weeks news that Winchester actually is one of the most affordable areas in Hampshire to buy a house for young families is welcoming and refreshing – especially after all the nasty TV programmes stating you need to own a few oil fields before you can settle here.

I love my rented flat in the city, but one day I hope that I too can climb the most difficult ladder of all to create a home in the old capital of England, and that our city’s economy will continue to allow me that opportunity. I’m happy to stand up and say I love where I live, and encourage all the ‘moaners’ and ‘complainers’ to look around, and find that love again for themselves.

I’m not entirely sure my fish tank and I count as a young family, but I’ll happily procure a pretty young female if it helps my chances with a mortgage adviser in this city.

Then one day in the distant future, I too may grunt the words “You’re leaving hey? You’ll be back soon enough” to some young fool with a fish tank under his arm.