Removing stains on wooden table

[Want-to-know]

I have a polished wooden table which, unfortunately, has some stains on it. It is from putting plates of hot food on it directly. The wood is sort of a rosewood colour but the stains show up as a light grey.

Can anybody advise how to remove these stains, or do I have to call in a french polisher?

Thanks.

[Jillius]

Rubbing cigarette ash is supposed to work apparantly !