There are several connected websites advertising plots of land with the title Lord or Laird or Lady.

The plots of land are of varying sizes: one square foot up to 100 square feet. That's a box 10 feet by ten feet, or five feet by 20 feet, for example. The plots are in a recently sold nature reserve on the West Coast of Scotland. Endorsements are remarkable: one, from Mrs Mahoney, is "It was good value for money."

How, we have to ask, does one assess the value for money? First, the cheapest plot (which, sadly, does not come with the very tasteful "drinks coaster" that more expensive plots provide, is just GBP30.

This is not landbanking. It's not an investment scheme. And, equally, it's not a purchase of land. You will not receive a title to the property. "You obtain a personal right to a souvenir plot of land. Highland Titles remains as the registered landowner and manages the land on your behalf. "

And you don't get a recognised title: *You will be addressed by your choice of Laird, Lord or Lady of the Glen by us and within our 300,000+ strong community. Please note you cannot buy a noble title. This is for enjoyment purposes only."

So, exactly what are you buying? Well it's not a title and it's not status. You are not buying a "Lord of the Manor" which is possible and you are not buying membership of the House of Lords, which, by all accounts is not only possible but widespread.

The company name is not obvious. But a "registered office" address is given as in Guernsey for Highland Titles. The name "Scottish Highlands Limited" is used on the terms and conditions and refers to the same address which is described as the "place of business."

So. when someone turns up and during the KYC examination says "I'm Lord x of Glencore" - you know that title might have cost as little as GBP30 .

How impressed are you now?