No Twitter, no cats: How to be a modern gentleman

Barry 'Fingers' Copson of the Handlebar Club pictured on Gentleman's Day at Sandown Park. Credit: Andrew Matthews/EMPICS Sport

By Cheryl Smith: ITV News

The gentleman is alive and well - and thriving in modern-day Britain, according to Country Life magazine.

The lifestyle bible, which is trying to find the country's quintessential "true gent", has re-envisioned the gentleman's rule book as part of its quest.

Gone are the days of pulling out chairs and holding doors open for ladies - and don't even think about posting your thoughts on Twitter if you want to be in with a shot.

If you wish to be a gentleman:

DO:

  • Be at ease in any situation and put others at ease

  • Always be on time

  • Dress to suit the occasion

  • Make love on your elbows

  • Occasionally get drunk, but never be disorderly

  • Ensure you are mindful of others' financial circumstances

DON'T:

  • Wear a pre-tied bow tie

  • Drink Malibu

  • Buy fuchsia trousers

  • Tweet

  • Put products in your hair

  • Wear Lycra

  • Write with a ballpoint pen

  • Plant gladioli

  • Own a cat

The Gentleman of the Year winner will be announced in the June edition of Country Life.