What a fascinating thread. Even more insightful than the Fell Ponies!

At the ripe old age of 53 and after 35 years in the Civil Service I've recently made the decision to go part time. I basically had two choices, work full time until I'm 58 and a bit and then retire or go down to 3 days a week from next January but stay on until 60. I went for the part time option as I get my enjoyment from running/climbing and decided I wanted the extra time to do them while the body is still more or less working properly. I know I will be poorer in my older age but that's a sacrifice I can make and live with. (I have no responsibilities for others at home)

I know so many who have stayed on doing work they hated for a bit longer than they needed to, just to get some extra money and then they've died within weeks of retiring. You just don't know what the future will bring.