MY girlfriend knows that I’m keen to start a family, but says she isn’t prepared to share me with a child.

She says she loves me so much that she wants me to all to herself.

All she’ll agree to is getting a dog, but only a small one because they don’t live for that long.

I’m nearly 30 and can’t imagine not being a dad.

I come from a large family and my own father was amazing. He took us out swimming, fishing and hiking all the time – and I want to do all that with a kid of my own.

But she’s not interested in letting me out of her sight at weekends. And I’m beginning to find her attitude a little odd.

I’m beginning to look at her in a whole new light and to view her as selfish and childish. Am I being too harsh?

Should I try to change her mind before we run out of time?

JANE SAYS: Not everyone likes or wants children and your girlfriend is perfectly entitled to speak her mind if she really doesn’t fancy becoming a mum.

However, you have to ask yourself this: What is more important to you, remaining childless with this girl or starting afresh with someone new who is willing to give you the family you crave?

I urge you to speak to your girl again and make it clear to her that this is something which requires a lot more discussion and explanation.

The sad fact is that you may not be fertile, fit or healthy for ever, so if this partner isn’t willing to give you the life and the future you crave, maybe you do have to conclude that you and she have gone as far as you can go and move along.