OCCASIONALLY, someone has a simple idea that solves a huge problem. The landlord of a pub in a Devon town had one such flash of inspiration when pondering a solution to the problem of rowdiness in the surrounding streets after closing time.

He gave out lollipops to those leaving the building, and - hey presto! - the problem was solved.

Now why didn't anyone think of that before -- it's a tried and tested formula that works with children, so why not grown-ups?

It got me thinking. Surely there are lots of ways in which we could introduce products manufactured for children -- in particular babies and toddlers -- into the adult market.

Let's see, I'm sure the following would make a big impact:

Pint-sized feeder cups: For those fellas who leave the bar clutching a huge round of drinks and proceed to spill half the contents over anyone unfortunate enough to be sitting on their route back to the table. Also useful for blokes watching football in newly-carpeted living rooms.

Adult-sized nappies: For all you lads out there who like to get a last one in before heading home, I know it would be more uncomfortable than your standard jockeys, but wouldn't it be better than relieving yourself in a shop doorway or an underpass, and risking arrest into the bargain?

Man-sized sleepsuits: The perfect neck-to-toe solution to DDS -- Disappearing Duvet Syndrome --which anyone who has shared a bed with a fella will be aware of.

A fleecy-lined sleepsuit, with built-in feet, would remove the need for any man to drag the duvet off whoever he's lying next to and mummify himself in it.

Baby listeners: Because you never know what he's saying when he's chatting to his mates. They may just be discussing why their team isn't doing so well, but then again, they may be planning a lads' night at the pub -- on your wedding anniversary.

Soothers: Dummies, or dodies, to you and me. They work for Liz Hurley, who sucks a dummy as an aid to give up smoking.

They're a bit more conspicuous than a nicotine patch, but if they do the trick, then why not? And, like a lolly, they might also come in useful to keep a whiny bloke quiet when you're out shopping.

Harness and reins: Another handy shopping tool. There would be no way your man could slope silently off to the bookies while you're rifling through the sales racks in Next.

Great big bouncy chairs: Now wouldn't a few dozen of those be great around a cricket field? When you think about it, there are so many products that could easily be adapted for grown-up use. Last but not least, is the one that sprang to my mind straight away...

The play pen: Of course, with my husband being over six feet tall, it would have to have sides at least eight feet high, and positioning it in the living room might be a problem.

But, once in place, I'd stick him in it -- so he couldn't get away when I play the dutiful role of nagging wife.