Paulo was born on the 14th May, 1967 in Montemor-O-Novo in Portugal, the elder son of Maria and Manuel DOS SANTOS. His brother Antonio, known as Manie was born 11 months later. The family moved briefly to Carregado before leaving to live in London when Paulo was four years old. His parents came to London first; Paulo had fond memories of living with his grandparents during that time. The children joined their parents a few months later when they had settled, Manuel supporting his family as a waiter and Maria as a cleaner. Young though he was, his love of Portugal stayed with him throughout his life and he was encouraged in it by his parents. Both he and Manie in addition to attending the local school also went to Portuguese school in Stepney Green on Wednesday and Saturday. They lived in Kentish Town for a short while, moving then to Wapping where Paulo attended St. Patrick’s Primary and Junior School and St Bernard’s Senior School in Bethnal Green. It was very difficult for children then, whose home language was not English. No special training and induction into the schooling system was given. For three years Paulo sat at the back of the class learning little. Any academic ability he may have had could not blossom. He also experienced bullying at school. The time spent at the Stepney Green Portuguese School however stood him in good stead for future years. Friendships made there by both the boys, lasting into manhood. Paulo was a lively child, happy, an independent thinker and a typical mischievous boy. He was impulsive and enthusiastic, spending his pocket money as soon as it was in his hand while his younger brother saved. Paulo was quite jealous when he saw what Manie bought with his accumulated wealth. They had no extended family for company in London. They were a Catholic family and had good manners instilled with a firm hand. They were not allowed to play outside alone until they were ten or so. Manuel would take them out on their bicycles, to the park where the brothers played tennis together and to the football fields. Paulo also loved computer games and as a man enjoyed X Box which he played on line with fellow enthusiasts all over the world. The strong link with Portugal was kept alive with frequent visits to the ‘home country’ where he would spend the long summer holiday’s. Paulo had thoughts to return to live there eventually. He wanted therefore to leave school without going onto further education so he could earn money and go back for holidays as often as possible. He gained C.S.E. passes in: English, Maths, History, Woodwork, Art and Science. He also gained his City and Guilds in DIY and Painting and Decorating, this was to benefit not only themselves but friends too in the future