Kameo's Boyfriend Arm Pillow resembles a man's torso, shoulder and arm, offering a cozy space sized to fit and comfort its lonely owner. The maker says the pillow provides an emotional comfort, and its shape keeps the body balanced by supporting the sleeper from both sides.

The pillow comes with two removable shirts its owner can use to bone-up on washing and pressing. One model also doubles as an alarm clock that shakes to wake its sleeping companion.

‘It has been so successful we have had to draw up a waiting list," A spokesman for Kameo said. "Women of all ages have been queueing round the block to take one home.’Priced at around $74, the pillow is currently available only in Japan - though, according to press reports, Kameo may soon be exporting it to Britain. Kameo is also planning to test the waters of the men's market; a limited edition Girlfriend Arm Pillow is to be released in the near future.