Hester: I use a Mudcat name not for prudence but because when I first approached it, under my daughter's influence perhaps, I understood that such was the norm. There have been times when I have felt uncomfortable using it, but have never expressed any opinion that I would not say openly. However I have said things that might (should anyone care!) link my daughter's Mudcat name to her real one, so I feel constrained about changing it now.

But then I don't have to worry about stalkers; if only because the name, physically, fits. (Ho ho bloody ho - quote from Mrs. Santa.)