We sang along to a busker – everyone thought we were mad

DATING PAST

I Was in a relationship for most of my 20s — we’d even bought a house together — but we ended it last year when we realised we wanted different things. I then dated a colleague for six months, but it was a case of right person, wrong timing. My philosophy is that you can be attracted to anyone, but love is something you work at. My parents have been married for 33 years and I would love to have a relationship like theirs.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

yEs — my mum was a little bit apprehensive, too. she knows I can be quite impulsive. as soon as sian sat down, I started talking at 100 miles an hour.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

WhEn sian walked across the restaurant, I knew instantly we’d have a good time. she’s a goodlooking woman. I was worried I’d be matched with someone I wasn’t attracted to — I didn’t think I’d be going on a date with someone who looked as good as sian.

EASY TO TALK TO?

our lunch date sailed by. We even talked about past relationships, discovering that 2019 was a bad year for both of us. sian ordered us prosecco and, because we were having such a good time, we had three courses — she even let me finish her chicken main course.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

I ordered steak tartare to start, but I’d never had it before. sian gently pointed out it was raw meat. I was a bit shocked, but it was actually delicious.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I Would say so! any guy would fancy sian.

DID YOU KISS?

no, But she gave me a friendly hug and a peck on the cheek when we said goodbye.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE THOUGHT OF YOU?

I’M not sure, although I know she thinks I’m funny. on our way to the train station we walked past a busker singing a James Blunt song and both of us joined in. Everyone looked at us as though we were a pair of weirdos! But it was a memorable end to our date. We met at 12.30pm and parted just after 8pm.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HER?

thEy would 100 per cent love sian.

Interviews: SAMANTHA BRICK