People keep asking me: "Are you still doing that minimum wage thing?"

And the answer is yes.

It's not sexy, it's not cool, I just continue to NOT spend very much.

I'm approaching the half-way mark and what have I learnt?

Well I have discovered that chocolate and junk food tastes much better when you are not able to buy them whenever you want.

I had a cheeseburger and chips the other evening which felt like the ultimate extravagance.

Not a single shrivelled morsel was left at the bottom of the paper bag, I couldn't even bring myself to bin the excess barbecue sauce I didn't use.

I have to admit though- it tasted so salty.

Porridge- that is one of my staples now.

I have also been eating a lot more fruit and veg to balance out the vast quantities of bread I have been eating to fill myself up.

The mince bolognase I made the other day was 20 per cent meat, 80 per cent tomatoes and other assorted vegetables.

Lamb mince itself was a luxury anyway, but mixing it with so many vegetables will make it last even longer.

In my first week someone posted a comment suggesting I find out if I'd be eligible for any benefits.

Next week I have booked up an appointment with an advisor from the citizens advice bureau, so they can explain to me what support is available on a low salary.