Blind date

Every week, we send a couple out on a blind date. This time, Barry Gilkes, 38, had dinner at Cantina laredo, in london’s Covent Garden, with alice larkworthy, 31.

Barry is a commercial analyst who lives in south london. alice is a sponsorship manager for a Premier league football club and lives in West london. Neither has ever been married.

ALICE, 31, SAYS:

My DaTe was already seated when I arrived and my initial impression was good. although he’d come straight from work, he looked nice and I could tell he’d tried hard.

But Barry was very nervous. I could sense I needed to put him at his ease.

We were at a Mexican restaurant and, while I was surprised he didn’t take control when it came to the menu, I didn’t mind being the one who ordered. I adore south american food, so I suggested we get plates to try together for the starter, as that way we’d have something to talk about.

While Barry seemed to think that was a good idea, he then immediately reeled off the things he didn’t eat. On reflection, I think he felt uncomfortable. But I am outgoing and like to take charge — which is why I made him taste the guacamole with crunchy grasshopper topping, despite the reluctance written all over his face!

I tried to bring him out a bit more and let him take the lead, but when he didn’t, I poured the wine, too. There is nothing wrong with Barry, but I could tell early on that the chemistry just wasn’t there.

small talk isn’t his thing, either — I think that might be because if he isn’t involved in long gaming sessions with his friends, then he is out enjoying solo walks.

Our life experiences are very different. I’m spontaneous and love spending my money on travelling — I once went to australia for three days — while Barry prefers to stay closer to home. I grew up overseas and we moved every three years.

This way of living is reflected in my relationship history: I don’t ever settle down. I’ve only had two proper boyfriends. I always end up calling time, as I’ve needed someone to push my buttons more.

The person I’m after is someone caring and kind. He needs to make me laugh, too, and be outgoing. But I don’t want someone who is loud or overbearing, either.

While I’ve dated via the usual apps, this is my first blind date. The dating apps are good and bad. They encourage singletons to get dating but, as decisions are generally based on looks, there is a sense of being disposed of very quickly. But I could never approach someone in a bar, either.

The restaurant was amazing, but the evening dragged on a bit. I was bored of the sound of my own voice by the end. I don’t want to be mean, but we are very

BARRY, 38, SAYS:

I Was very nervous about the blind date. But my mum was very keen that I do this — she worries about me leaving it too late to settle down and is forever telling me to get a move on and meet someone. she is convinced I’ll be on my own at 60 at this rate!

I arrived at the restaurant early. It was a bit daunting, but I kept telling myself to enjoy it — no matter what. Despite what Mum thinks, I am keen on finding my happy ever after. When alice arrived, I could see she was attractive. she was wearing a stunning tangerine dress.

I’m normally attracted to brunettes but, physically, she ticked every box. While there wasn’t that initial romantic spark, we did get on well.

alice thought it was a good idea to share plates for our starter, but one of them was a guacamole dish with grasshoppers sprinkled on top. I must admit, I was reluctant to try it! However, I surprised myself and liked it. alice directed the flow of conversation throughout the date. I was pleased she did, as I felt a bit shy. after the meal, we opted for a liquid dessert — also alice’s idea. I’d never had a margarita cocktail before, but she got me to try one. I don’t normally drink tequila! I have been single for the past decade. after a few bad experiences in quick succession during my 20s, I decided I wanted to concentrate on myself for a while. suddenly, I found that the years had rolled by. Today, I live on my own and, I must admit, I don’t get out much. I work normal office hours, but I have a three-hour round-trip commute each day.

STIll, I have all sorts of interests outside work. I’m currently training for a 100 km trek. I also do a lot of walking at weekends. I’m a bit of a tech geek who enjoys playing video and board games, mainly for the social interaction that comes with it. That’s probably why a female platonic friend said I should apply for this date!

While I have dated, none of those encounters have led to a relationship. I’ve avoided online dating as you’re just a small voice in a large crowd. I know I can be a wallflower and I’m a shy person. I won’t go up to someone in a bar. I’d need to get to know them first.

The kind of woman I’m after is someone laidback who will laugh at my jokes. I like women who are like alice: down-to-earth, easygoing, modern and confident.

While there wasn’t a romantic spark, I recognise that connection comes with time. The best thing about the night was meeting someone new. I didn’t have any grand expectations, but I think I have found another friend. I’d like to see alice again.

LIKED? Meeting someone like alice. REGRETS? Being so nervous!

COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee.