LIVING the single life in Leamington is a sociable affair and advice on enjoying time alone has scooped a town author an award.

After being single for many years and loving the time to herself retired civil servant Christine Ingall decided to pen a self help guide for those who find it difficult being on their own.

And her book Solo Success! You can do things on your own won the gold award in the personal development category of the Janey Lee Grace Platinum Awards after judges recognised the increasing numbers of single people in the UK needing support.

Christine told the Observer: One thing I wont take for granted is that people who are without a partner, who live on their own, are somehow second class citizens even in their own eyes.

More and more people are living alone in the UK, but not all of them happily. Many people who find themselves suddenly single after a break up are not accustomed to living without a partner.

I realised I had many years experience of being single, living alone and overcoming the fears and challenges of being solo in a couple-centred society, which is why I wrote the book.

And Christine says while those on their own must refuse to be treated like a second class citizen, they must also not treat themselves that way by avoiding social events.

But it is mostly good news for those living in Leamington, which she says is one of the friendliest towns for single people.

She said: Leamington is friendly and sociable. I wouldnt live anywhere else. Costa coffee on The Parade is a member of the Chatty Caf scheme, where people on their own are encouraged to go in for a coffee and mix with others at a social table.

But most restaurants dont actively encourage solo dining for example even though tables for one requests have dramatically increased in the last few years.

And despite loving the single life, she refuses to rule out a relationship.

Christine added: I have been in relationships, some long term, and never expected to find myself in this position.

There are up and downsides to being alone and being in a relationship. Ive got used to being solo, but I would never say never to a relationship if the right person came along.

I say, live the best life you can everyday.

The book, priced 10.99, is available from Amazon and the Leamington branch of Waterstones. It is also available to download as an e-book.

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Living the single life in Leamington is a 'sociable' affair and local author wins prize for her self help guide - Leamington Observer