As a Granny-of-four, I model myself on my Granny. She was an artist and a great reader and crossword-doer. She patiently taught me to think through the cryptic clues in the Times crossword.

She was born in the reign of Queen Victoria, and appreciated antiques and precious things, not neccesarily valuable.

She understood where I was coming from, when my parents didn't.

She had the time to listen to me, and wasn't disappointed by the lack of domestic skills that so outraged my mother.

She taught me the meaning of integrity, by encouraging me to look it up in the dictionary, then answering my questions.

I hope I can do the same for my grandsons.