Cash Converters

A cross between a pawn shop and a jumble sale, Cash Converters is the ideal location to get some cash for those lonely items that didn't sell through E-bay.

Places of luxury they ain't, and sometimes they're, well, not full of the classiest people to roam this Earth (miaow). Although, judging by Marbella Belles which I caught on ITV last night - class and cash don't necessarily go together! (Saucer of milk for you my girl!)

In fact I can guarantee that while you're waiting to be served you'll be making up stories about the people in front of you. Really they're flogging their old stereo because they've bought a new one with the earnings from those two jobs they've been working. But, in your mind they are part of a seedy underworld and that stereo is just the tip of the iceberg in their life of crime. It's ridiculous but if you're anything like me, you're imagination will definately be roaming!

Anyway, ambience and clientele aside. This is one easy way to get some sure fire cash for the crap you don't want any more. OK, so it's not mega bucks, but 'watch the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves' etc... etc...

So, today I took in 5 VHS videos and a silver necklace. The necklace was a 21st birthday gift from my exes 'rents and was never really my taste. The only reason I haven't got rid of it sooner is my previous compulsion to feel as though I had to keep all birthday gifts, especially those from 'big birthdays' such as my 18th and 21st. I now realise this is total codswallop, besides I'm sure the person who gave me the gift would rather it has gone to good use, in buying me something which I really do want, namely some bricks and mortar that myself and Love of my Life can call home.

So, how much did I get for my goodies? Let's see 20p per video and £4 for the necklace, equals £5. OK, let's not get overly excited, but that's more than I would have got if I'd just chucked them out. Places like Cash Converters, and even, Ebay do make me feel sorry for charity shops though who would have probably received a lot of the goods that now make their way to these mighty empires. As some consolation, as soon as I am more financially stable I do want to donate some money (and time) to charities. So, please don't think I'm totally heartless.

NB> Don't forget if you want the nice people to give you cash for your goodies, you'll need to take along some form of ID (I used a driving licence) and expect to have your photo taken too.

Another NB> I believe Cash Converters also offer a pawnbroker style service, and various loans. I've no idea what these services are like and, as always, would suggest you shop around before signing up to anything.

Happy Cash Converting! Find your local branch here.