Ottery resident Josefina Gori writes for the Herald.

February 29, also known as Leap Year, is a unique opportunity for many women worldwide to propose marriage to their partners, particularly in countries like Ireland.

Growing up in a society that was considered "old-fashioned", I used to find the idea of women proposing to men during a leap year both amusing and unbelievable. When the opportunity presented itself, neither I nor any man I knew would have welcomed such an unconventional proposal. However, it is interesting to note how customs from different regions and countries are adopted into our society, despite their origins in ethnicity, social behaviour, religion, and other factors that make various cultures unique.

The leap year came into being with the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1582, replacing the Julian calendar used in the West since the year 46. Interestingly, some countries, such as Greece, Romania, and Bulgaria, continued to use the Julian calendar until the middle and end of the 20th century.

There are many theories about the origin of this tradition. However, it is generally agreed that it is an Irish custom since Ireland is a country that values traditions, celebrated on February 29, which only occurs during a leap year.

Other theories suggest that the tradition of women proposing to men during a leap year might have been inspired by a 17th-century play called The Maydes Metamorphosis. According to legend, Saint Patrick and Saint Brigid debated the injustice of women having to wait for men to propose to them, especially when men were shy or undecided. As a solution, Saint Patrick granted women the right to propose, but only on February 29, the day of most leap years.

However, it is hard to prove that this custom dates back so far, as there is little evidence that February 29 was celebrated before the 19th century. What does exist is a 1288 law enacted by Queen Margaret of Scotland, which stipulated that men who rejected a woman's proposal would be fined and must give her a silk dress or 12 pairs of gloves to cover the hand without a ring in other versions of the "fine."

Regarding my upbringing, it remains uncertain to be seen whether this tradition applies to Spain or Latin America. Nevertheless, some etiquette experts suggest seven crucial points when proposing to men. Listen carefully ladies!

Firstly, it is essential not to be corny, as most men do not enjoy grand displays of affection in public. Secondly, humour can break the tension and create a memorable moment. Thirdly, providing a symbolic item that frames the moment instead of a ring is recommended. Fourthly, men do not like being the centre of attention, so discretion is critical. Fifthly, it is necessary to remember that proposing is a life-changing decision and not to be taken lightly. Sixthly, if the relationship is experiencing problems, a marriage proposal will not solve them. Finally, if the answer is no, don't take it personally, as he might not think it's the right moment. Above all remember that etiquette is about showing small gestures of respect towards others, which can improve our relationships.

At the moment this tradition applies to various countries like Ireland, England, the USA, and Latin America among others. However, with globalization, it's essential to be cautious on this day. It seems silly that women are only encouraged to take control of their romantic futures one day every four years. I don't mind a bit of tradition, but it's essential to remember that any time is good, as long as it's romantic, realistic and memorable, so please do not wait four years, without forgetting the “etiquette”, to pop the question to the man of your dreams. Good luck.