Susie Steiner writes: Paul Blezard, chairing one of the Hay festival's literary debates, takes a question from the floor: "Lady in the third row," he tells the steward with the microphone.

A gruff male voice is heard speaking into the mic.

Blezard: "I am so sorry. It's not the first time I've made that error. It does, of course, explain my long-term single status."