My daughter lashed out at my son but now she won’t let me see my grandkids

DEAR DEIDRE: My daughter drunkenly lashed out and punched my son in the face. He’s 15 and was devastated.

We’d booked a family holiday for half-term. My daughter of 25 was coming with her partner, 36 and their daughter, two.

Her partner’s mates were coming to the same resort and once they arrived, we were pushed aside. They had their young families with them but it soon became a booze-up with their kids ignored.

One of their children almost drowned in the pool while his parents sat at the bar.

My son rescued the little boy but his parents said nothing.

My daughter seemed drunk for the whole time we were away.

The last night we had a family meal booked. My daughter showed up at the restaurant slurring and then said she was going out with her friends.

My son complained that he’d hardly seen her all week. She got angry but he stood his ground – and then she punched him.

Everyone in the restaurant saw it and my daughter was escorted out.

Since we’ve got back, she’s told us we are not fit grandparents and we won’t see our grandaughter again. I’m 50 and I’m so upset.

DEIDRE SAYS: Your daughter is berating you to deflect the attention away from her own bad behaviour. You’ve done nothing wrong.

If this aggressive outburst is not in her character, you may find she is unhappy in her relationship, causing her worrying behaviour.

You have a tricky line to walk. She needs to know you won’t tolerate such violence and she must apologise to your son.

But you also need to let her know you are worried about her behaviour and drinking, while assuring her you will support her if she wants.

Support website grandparentsapart.co.uk, helps grandparents to keep in touch with grandchildren.