Not read all the thread 
But I was getting fed up of being told I need my class 1 (had class 2 28 years) so just went off and booked it and three days holiday, then came the phone call. “Ste, I believe you booked class 1 on your holidays?” me “yup” panic voice from boss, “have you paid?” me “yup” another strained voice “bring the reciet in and cancel your holidays, we will pay”, me “yup… (Hand over phone) … Result” 
He thought I would bugger off with class 1 
So, a few weeks later my rigid went and an artic was in its place, keys dangled at me and just told to go for it, so I pooped a bit and got on with it
Branston are advertising for class 1 in lincoln mate.
Don’t know the details but might be worth a look.
I keep getting told I’ll be driving proper trucks at my place, then gets cancelled at last minute. Granted, I do get a go occassionally. A collegue on class 1 had to go for an op, I was supposed to cover for the 8 weeks, 2 weeks in get put back on class 2. Passed test on W&D, then had 1 night with said driver and that was my conversion training. None of the use holiday bs you seem to be getting. Class 1 pay at my place isn’t much more than class 2. But its the experience I’m after.
But all of the above doesn’t really matter as looking for a new job. But something I want to do, instead of any old thing.
If that makes no sense, it must be too early for my poor brain to convert what I’m thinking into words. 
Stay as you are for the time being,BUT keep looking around for a Company that will give you what you want.
At some point your present TM will need an artic driver,then it will be your turn to say NO i wasnt good enough when I wanted to drive artics,but im good enough when it suits.
Every dog has his day
I’m looking, was hesitant to jump but I’m being pushed more and more into it. They’ve changed the way things run and it’s going to affect me in the pocket. I’ll call Branston tomorrow. I did get recommended a local haulier but they do a lot of work out the place I currently work out of plus they don’t pay for parking.
Don’t mess Branston about though mate.
You don’t want to end up in a pickle.