24 MARCH 2007, Page 79

Q. I am shortly to give the address at a

memorial service. I have a sentimental streak and may well be overcome by emotion. I dread being unable to continue once the tears start rolling.

Name and address withheld A. Why not use this tip given to someone in a similar position to your own by actor/ playwright Simon Williams. Come prepared with a handkerchief drenched in old-fashioned smelling salts (still available from chemists). Should you sense an imminent collapse you need only run the hankerchief briefly past your nose to give yourself a physical shock sufficient to cut sharply through the welling emotion and help you to maintain your composure.