READER LETTER OF THE WEEK

Dear Jude,

I’m 55, have two teenage daughters (late teens), live in a rural town (I’d rather not name it!) and I am divorced from my husband of 30 years. And oh my God, how do I go about dipping my toes back into the dating world? My ex-husband already seems to be dating people half his age (don’t get me started), but

I’d like something a bit more serious (and respectable). I don’t want my daughters knowing! What do people even do in this situation? I haven’t dated since I was 19. Anon, via email

Dear Anon,

Well, hats off to you. Firstly, you’re living a new life after 30 years of marriage (not an overnight decision I imagine) and coping with whatever fallout that brings. Secondly, you’re parenting “adulting” daughters, which needs a mum’s patience and understanding as you love them through the lumpy bits, and thirdly, you have an ex-husband acting like a hormonal teenager! BTW, don’t let his behaviour throw you. Dating someone closer to his daughters’ age doesn’t reflect on you... only him. Now, unless there’s a guy you have your eye on, I’d let technology filter from afar. Not sure I’d download Tinder, but there’s a few other sites that I personally know some people to have had success with. Bumble is initiated by the woman, so there’s a bit more control there. Ignoring the rather ridiculous and superior name, Elite Singles makes a more scientific match by seeking more info about you. Lastly,

Find Someone has been around for a while and has a solid following. Or, as my friend calls it, “Find Someone Else”! Which is you − off to find someone else after 30 years. Woohoo.

Dip that toe of yours in the digital pool, I say. One last hint from a single mate − just do coffee at a café first up, in case he’s a dud. This is your year, girl!