EVER since human beings stood upright, man has exercised the privilege (club at the ready!) of telling a woman she looks nice.

But now the sophisticated “elite” has decided that such a sentiment is not PC and could be construed as “malice aforethought”.

Doubtless there were unwelcome gestures/comments that are rightly outcast. But when the propriety of every word, phrase and expression has become an issue with political, social, legal and economic consequences, have we not created a monster in our midst?

I say “economic” because money predictably can be a driving force in this unsavoury scenario with some people quick to sue at the “drop of a word”.

Avoid your next cocktail party if only for Covid’s sake!

Darlington, however, remains a bastion of traditional values. Over the last week, while shopping in town, I was called “luv”, “darlin”, “pet” and wait for it - the nadir of endearments, “blossom!”.

I haven’t been the same since. That’s got to be worth £10k!

Does anyone know a good lawyer?

Michael Baldasera,