Blind date

EveRy week, we send a couple out on a blind date. This time James Brown, 35, had dinner at forty Dean Street, in london’s Soho, with Belle lewis, 32.

James is a property manager who lives in Stratford, east london. Belle is an interpreter and lives in Catford, South london. Belle is divorced and James has never been married.

BELLE SAYS:

THIS was my first date since splitting from my husband two years ago. I’ve never been on a blind date before, either, so I was nervous and then some!

It might sound like a long time to be on my own, but I wanted to understand why my marriage didn’t work out. I don’t want to fall for another man with issues.

fortunately, when I reached the restaurant, James was already waiting for me and quickly put me at ease. He’s a lovely guy and I realised I shouldn’t have worried.

James is totally different from the type of guy I normally see. There doesn’t seem to be any drama with him; he’s uncomplicated, and, at this stage in my life, that’s a very attractive trait.

The men I’ve been in relationships with previously have been intense types who thrive on drama. They’ve all been physically strong and looked after themselves. I’m sure James would be the first to say he has a bit of a tummy! But if my 20s taught me anything, it is to see beyond someone’s physique.

Since my divorce, I’ve had a bit of a makeover myself. I recently cut my hair into a short style, which feels like a dramatic change for me.

James is great because he’s someone who really listens to you. I enjoyed his attention and felt very treasured and valued in his company. He did talk a lot about work and his job as a property manager, too, which sounds like it is full on.

The restaurant was wonderful, with live music that made for a great vibe.

We shared a starter, then I had ravioli and we finished with two desserts: tiramisu and salted caramel cheesecake. I never normally eat so much in one sitting but it was fabulous.

I could see myself introducing James to friends. The jury is out on my family as I would need to be very sure of someone to do that. I wouldn’t be able to make such a decision after spending just a few hours together.

It’s so difficult when you meet someone for the first time, especially when you don’t know one another, to say if there might be a future. I wouldn’t think long-term yet, but I am open-minded.

I’d like to see James again. But as for romance, I don’t think so. We took each other’s numbers and I do hope to hear from him, even if it’s just platonic. James is a nice guy and I know he’ll make someone a fantastic husband. What this experience has taught me is that uncomplicated men are the future for me! LIKED? The way James listened. REGRETS? None. COFFEE OR CAB? Coffee. VERDICT: 7/10

JAMES SAYS:

My flaTMaTe put me up for this date because she is in a happy relationship and wants me to find love, too. I’ll admit I was curious; my motto is to always try something once.

I got there first and was at the table waiting for Belle when she arrived. My first impression was that she is reasonably pretty, although not exactly my type physically. I’m more into the hipster type — although, if you can make me laugh, I’m smitten.

Superficially, I do like someone who dresses with style. My ideal woman is someone I can sit and watch Jools Holland with. I wouldn’t say no to Holly Willoughby, either!

I’m not sure if Belle was nervous, but the conversation was a bit slow at first. I tried to find things we had in common, and eventually discovered a few mutual interests.

Maybe she felt awkward and unused to dating again, since I understand it was her first time since her divorce.

We both like playing Scrabble and are real foodies, so we were able to talk about that. even so, I found I was working hard at trying to draw her out. But it would be harsh to judge her on the strength of a first date, because she is clearly a sweetnatured person.

On paper, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with Belle. She is well- mannered, polite and attractive, but for me there was zero chemistry.

Maybe if we had met with other people around it would have been different. I’m sure my friends would get along with Belle, as they’re a very accommodating group and rub along with most people. But during a one-on-one meeting, she didn’t seem able to open up and relax.

I’ve never been married, although I’ve had a couple of long-term relationships. But I’d like to settle down; it is a goal of mine.

I recognise I need to be more social to make that happen, but work gets in the way. as a property manager the hours are long and antisocial, and working at the weekends is the norm, too.

In the week, I often don’t finish until 8.30pm, so going out afterwards can be tricky. It’s only recently that I’ve looked around and realised that all my friends are in relationships. When we go out together I feel like the third wheel at times.

My friends have tried to fix me up with potential girlfriends but nothing has yet materialised from those encounters. I’ve tried dating apps, too, but not had a date yet. I don’t get to spend much time online because my work life is so hectic. I’d probably look once or twice a week at the most. That’s not going to help me find Mrs Right!

My family are keen to see me settled down. My older sister is married and Mum would love a few grandchildren. Nothing like a bit of pressure!

While the blind date was a great experience I wouldn’t pursue a relationship with Belle.

LIKED? Belle was easy to get along with. REGRETS? None.

COFFEE OR CAB? Cab. VERDICT: 5/10

I’m sure he’d be the first to say he has a bit of a tummy My first impression? Reasonably attractive