23 AUGUST 2008, Page 55

Q. At the not particularly old age of 52 I

am suddenly feeling rather clapped out and past it. I am not bald or fat or ill but I have realised I am becoming demoralised by the lack of anyone, other than Paxman, on the television older than myself. What can I do Mary?

G.W., Wiltshire A. Why not take a holiday in Madeira? The sun will do you good but more to the point you will be surrounded by people not just one, but often two generations, older than yourself. This will do wonders in boosting your self-esteem and sense of proportion.