MANY thanks to readers who sent me remedies to alleviate the cough that is still lingering after four weeks.

I didn’t want to bother my doctor at the surgery but did speak to him on the telephone and he said it was normal, at this time of year, for a cough to run for three to six weeks. So I have about 10 days to go.

Linda Wood said: “I have had a similar cough for five weeks and, after trying several remedies to no avail, I bought some menthol crystals from our village chemist and inhaled three times daily.

“What a relief this brought but beware the instructions on the container as the vapours don’t half make your eyes water.”

An anonymous reader suggested a mixture I think I shall try to avoid, although they swear by its efficacy: Put brown striped humbugs in a glass container and cover with vinegar. Stir often until dissolved. Sip one teaspoon when needed.

Malcolm Haigh offered an alternative that seems far more attractive.

“Whisky and the hat is a well known cure to try last thing at night,” he said. “Hang your hat on the bedroom door and drink whisky until the hat moves.”

Sounds all right to me, Malcolm.