Curse of being a great beauty

GREAT beauty can be as much of a curse as a blessing. As Raquel Welch (right), 77, said herself this week: ‘We can all agree that ageing is challenging, but believe me, it can be even more so for a fading sex symbol.’

She’s right, of course. It’s why the world still idolises the likes of Marilyn Monroe, who died at the height of her sexual powers.

But it doesn’t all have to be doom and gloom. Look at Joan Collins (84), Sophia Loren (83), Judi Dench (82) and even Rhonda Fleming (94). All beautiful despite their ages.

By comparison, Welch is practically a child. It’s as much about attitude as anything else. Not to mention — in some cases, your honour! — the talent of your plastic surgeon.