ETIQUETTE’S NEW NORMAL MEANS THERE’S NO EXCUSE FOR SHELVING YOUR MANNERS

DON’T allow coronavirus to make mincemeat of your manners. Debrett’s, custodians of the nation’s politesse, insists there are ways to behave courteously even in a mask.We must smile: even with our mouths obliterated the grin apparently shows in our eyes. Waiting for a passer-by approaching to step into the road to avoid your germs is out. Choose instead to give way first. And instead of flinching horror-stricken from overly demonstrative pals, fling out the charming phrase “I wish I could give you a hug”, thereby warning them to back off while also demonstrating a suitable level of

regret. Add to the mix this no-brainer: refrain from serving a huge bowl of dip to visitors but if you do, remember to look livid if they plunge a half-chewed carrot into the communal hummus.