22 MARCH 2008, Page 79

Q. I have often wondered whether tablecloths are U or non-U. What do you say, Mary?

A.N.W., London NW1 A. There is no strict rule on tablecloths although where valuable tables are concerned it may be better to protect the table from damage to make your guests feel less anxious. Where tablecloths are used they must be clean, crisp (a starched cloth is best) and monochrome. If children are to be present, it is wise to use a large (ideally starched) linen napkin as a mini tablecloth in front of each child. In this way their messes need not require the entire cloth to be changed if no other spillages have occurred.