Welcome on board Alan, I can only repeat Howards words, if you have questions then we will have an answer. Noel.

It seems that before too long the questions are goping to be

"What lathe should I buy"? and

possibly

"What mill shall I buy"/

In both cases, Don't rush.

Buy some books on lathework, and having made a purchase (Budget, Space, End products will all influence your choice )

The budget should allow for buying measuring equipment, 6" rule, Digital, Dial, or Vernier Calliper, Dial Indicators, Magnetic Base spring to mind, as you progress.

Although the Mag base and DTIs will be needed to set up the lathe, with some advice and help from the more experienced.

Probably a Bench Grinder, for tool sharpening, also.

Joining a M E Club, should allow you to see and watch a variety of machines in action, and techniques.

Then, when you have a lathe and have set it up, again, don't rush into making things.

The first things to make are mistakes on cheap material, from which you can learn.

Then progress to making simple tools, as a further learning. You will use the Tap Wrenches, Die Holders , Centre Height Gauge, Mandrel handle etc for many years to come.

HTH

Howard

Alan, I'm in EH4 close to the Dean Bridge. And have a thing about historic race cars.

If you ping me a number on a direct message, I'd be happy to show you what I have squeezed in. And, more importantly, why.

Cheers, Colin