[katex]

A decent compromise which suited all parties methinks for you and Willow, Busman.

Thought you would have had to go through deed poll to get on official documents, etc., but thanks for the info.

Think the reason my friend has stuck with the name is because she couldn't be bothered with all the hassle, and the embarrassment of explaining to everyone the reason why she would be compromised into reverting back to what was her married name.

I have never had any desire to rid myself of my married name as fit in with my sons; my daughter, on the other hand, did feel she had to rid herself of her ex-husband's name and return to her maiden name, and went through deed poll. She also had her daughter's name changed to this (had to seek permission off the father). Has made life easier .. now, myself, son, grandaughter and daughter all come with the same surname.