Many would say no, but the Border’s first “professional cuddler” believes with many people looking for companionship, there is a market out there.

Heidi McAlpine offers to rub hands and feet, scratch backs, hold hands and spoon on an hourly basis as part of the new business she started two weeks ago.

It’s all above board with Ms McAlpine making it clear she was not offering an adult service and that she first held a “meet and greet” to determine whether she was happy with a client.

It might seem like an unusual career move for a former tax office worker.

But Ms McAlpine said touch reduced stress, boosted the immune system and gave people a sense of belonging.

“People think it’s weird at first but when you look into it, it makes a lot of sense,” she said.

“When I first heard about the service in America I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry — I thought it was silly.

“But then I was sad that there was a need for it and thought it was something I could do.”

Ms McAlpine, who is also a phone counsellor with Lifeline, said she was an empathetic listener and said she wouldn’t be surprised if clients shared their secrets with her.

She said several people had answered her advertisement for her cuddling service.

“One guy was in a long-term marriage but has found himself in a situation where he is single and certainly feeling a lack of touch,” Ms McAlpine said.

“I think the service is good, especially for busy career people and those who are touch-starved.”

She said she would cater for all adults — men and women — aged 18 to 108.

“I just want people to receive the health benefits and a sense of security and love without complication,” she said.