19 JULY 2003, Page 55

Q. We have been going to Cornwall every summer since

the children were born. This year my daughter is 15 and wants to join the other teenagers staying up all night on the beach at Daymer Bay. I do not want to cramp her style but I am worried she may get into some sort of trouble. What shall I do, Mary?

Name and address withheld A. Why not join forces with another concerned parent and the two of you do a Mrs Doubtfire? Dress up as a couple of tramps or saddoes, bring a liquid picnic, stoke a minibonfire, and make an evening of it. You will then be ready to strike should the need arise.