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I’M losing old friends by the dozen because my new partner is so outspoken and intense.

She is a great one for a good cause. At the moment, she’s up in arms about lazy politicians and plastic.

But while I find her passion admirable, I’m aware that people are starting to drop us.

More than one mate has complained she’s too overwhelming and, even a little boring. This breaks my heart, as she’s a really good person underneath.

Recently she attacked my old boss who runs his own firm, accusing him of underpaying his staff and treating them like slaves.

He hit the roof and I had to apologise for her. Now I realise that he hasn’t invited me to his annual summer party, which is usually the highlight of my year.

What am I going to do?

JANE SAYS: You need to be honest with your girlfriend about balance.

Of course it’s good that she has such a strong social conscience and interesting views, but there is a time and a place for everything.

Explain to her that you would appreciate some downtime; some silliness and frivolity too.

Ban all political or “heavy” conversation for the time being and maybe have a prearranged code word you can utter whenever she gets carried away?

Obviously you don’t wish to stifle her passion – or shut her up – but you are entitled to speak your mind too.

If she doesn’t like it, and friends continue to drop you, then maybe you need to rethink this whole situation.