25 AUGUST 2001, Page 55

Q. I am 48 years old. I am nearly six

foot and weigh about ten stone, and have done for 25 years. I do not diet and my husband is happy with my bones. My problem is that when I go out people often comment with painstaking concern about how thin I am. For example, at a recent party I had

thought I was looking reasonably attractive when someone approached me with the usual pained expression. 'You are so thin. Should we be worried? You must try and put some weight on.' I immediately felt 85, terminally ill, all confidence and humour gone. Please help me with a suitable response. I really am desperate.

A.G., Suffolk A. You should punish these people by taking the wind out of their sails. Reply sweetly, 'Please don't be jealous. I've often longed to be a little hit plump like you, but no matter how much delicious food I eat, I just can't seem to put weight on.'