My family are important to me. I’ve been married for just about 30 years now to Peter, a lawyer from Liverpool, who is my best friend, chief supporter and cheerleader and the wisest man I know.

I’ve also been a mother for 25 years, to three now-adult children who may, eventually, fly the nest but who currently keep me busy at home cooking, cleaning and cackling at their jokes. They are a daily blessing, and I would do anything for them.

And I’m blessed enough to still have both my parents, although they’re in their 80s and beginning to act their age, not their shoe size.

Spending time with them has been a real joy, from the days out and holidays to afternoons spent at the Grandparent’s drinking tea while it rains. If you have a family, hold onto them.

And if you don’t have a family? Create one. Adopt a granny who needs someone to wave at. Never miss an opportunity to play peek a boo with a baby. Find friends who can love you like a mother, tease you like a brother and wind you up like a younger sister. And hold them close.