Bravery of going solo

I READ with sadness about the death of Sir John Timpson’s wife of 48 years before they had the chance to fulfil their dream of a geriatric gap year (Mail).

Seventeen months ago, aged 59, I joined the 500 women a day who are widowed in the UK. The loss still makes it hard to cope some days.

My family and friends have been a wonderful support and finally my thoughts can turn to the future. I would like to set off on holiday alone, but have been put off by those five hateful words: ‘Booking based on two sharing.’

There are firms that do not have a single supplement, but they are very expensive.

Air travel is per person, so I can’t understand why I am charged double for a hotel where I eat only one breakfast.

My heart goes out to the 500 women who will experience the worst moment of their lives today. Be strong — you will survive.

JANE MEAN, Hertford.