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A. Your instinctive reaction was correct. Most readers would have sympathy for a mother and child separated on such a flight but would expect a couple in their sixties to be unbothered, if not actually pleased — especially at the thought that the mini-error might result in ‘compensation’. Indeed, the couple you mention were almost certainly exhibiting Bogus Distress Syndrome, theatrical over-reaction to a mini-problem in the hope of, in this case, milking the airline for a free flight, air miles or future upgrades. In refusing to move, you were doing them a favour.
Q. I have found the perfect remedy for driving off charity muggers when they waylay me. I just firmly say, ‘Not in the street, thank you,’ and walk on. They fall back astonished, while I can continue with a priggish satisfaction from both having seen them off and being polite. I think, perhaps, your readers may also find this Exocet helpful.
T.L.P., London NW2
A. Thank you for this useful tip. You cannot blame the charity muggers. The odd thing is that many under-thirties respond well to their street solicitations and happily sign up to have monthly contributions extracted from their bank accounts.
Q. Can you just remind me how to do a DIY temporary necklift?
A.W., London NW10
A. Thanks to my American correspondent, B.T., I am currently sampling ready-made neck-lift devices. Until I can recommend a brand, why not use a large-eyed tapestry needle to impregnate the pads of two strips of heavy duty Elastoplast with linking knicker elastic. Position the plasters a few inches apart at the base of the back of the neck and tighten. Tie in a bow. Conceal under big-buckle jewellery or your hair.
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