Good manners are an uncommon courtesy

While the notion of being a lady or a gentleman can seem more Downton Abbey than 2015 Ireland, Caroline Allen says that good manners are the true mark of character and are sadly rare

IN this era of over-sharing — naked selfies, binge-drinking, sex tapes, social-media stalking and trolling and expletive-strewn conversations — being a lady or gentleman seems outdated.

However, abiding by rules of etiquette, be it on the sports field or when socialising, will set us apart in a competitive world, says Ursula Stokes, who lectures on deportment and grooming (Ursula Stokes Agency, Limerick; www.ursulastokes.com)