I DON'T know why but three times in the last week I have been asked if I would speak to women's groups.

Sorry I can't do it. I am not a public orator. For over 40 years I have tried my best to avoid the scary task.

Only last week I was able to categorise my fear when I read about a condition called kakorraphiaphobia - the fear of failing and showing yourself up in front of others.

These phobics often disguise their worries under a super confident facade. That's me.

Severe sufferers have their lives ruined by it. I am not that bad, but in case anyone else is thinking of asking, I'm afraid I have to apologise in advance. I couldn't do it for £1,000 an hour.