1 DECEMBER 2001, Page 81

Q. In the last week I have passed three separate

neighbours in the street who have failed to respond as they usually do to my smiled greeting, and instead have just cut me dead. I am sick with worry that I have done something to offend these people. How can I find out what this could be?

A.B., London W8 A. Anxiety like yours is widespread at this time of year, but do not worry. The apparent snubbings are merely to do with lowlying sun. Although your neighbours may be fully illuminated when you pass them, if you are walking with your back to the sun, you will appear only as an indistinct and shadowy figure, becoming technically invisible.