MORE than four-fifths of wedding couples now just ask for cash instead of presents.

Understandable, I suppose, when most couples have been living together for years and are all stocked up on toasters and towels.

Many people of course want to give money, it’s easier to write a cheque than going out and buying something. But actually asking outright for it is seems, well, a bit tacky… It’s not that long since even an official present list was thought to be a bit pushy. Rude to ask or expect and all that.

I don’t even mind helping a young couple get together the money for a mortgage or furniture – but when the requested money is destined for an elaborate honeymoon – posher than any holiday I’d have myself – my patience wears thinner. And my cheque smaller.