My flirting skills were rusty — not that I wanted to use them

RELATIONSHIP HISTORY?

I’ve been married twice. I’ve been single since my last marriage ended a year-and-a-half ago.

I have a daughter and two sons. They are my world but, now they’ve flown the nest, I live alone with my little Yorkie dog, who is my baby now. It would be lovely to find someone to share my time with.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

Yes, I was nervous. I wore a black dress and had a cheeky cocktail to settle my nerves.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

I WAs disappointed when I saw Luke was dressed casually in a pair of jeans and a shirt, although his clothes, at least, looked clean and ironed.

When he was shown to our table, we shook hands but it felt awkward. he didn’t compliment me or say it was nice to meet me.

EASY TO TALK TO?

The conversation felt strained. It was hard to find topics we could both talk about.

he chatted about walking and the coast paths, and about music and films, but we didn’t have much in common. I think the only thing we both watched was Coronation street.

he didn’t seem to spend much time at home, whereas I like to watch Tv and chat to my friends and family.

We didn’t get into any serious conversations and there wasn’t any laughter. It’s a shame because the restaurant was lovely. The staff were friendly, too; more friendly than my date.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

oNLY when he tucked his napkin into his shirt, although that was more amusing than embarrassing. I didn’t mention it as there was no banter between us, so it would have come across as an insult. The funny thing was that despite the napkin, he still spilled food on his shirt.

DID SPARKS FLY?

No! I feel I’ve been out of the game for a long time so my flirting skills are rusty, but I wouldn’t have brought them out anyway. We shared a taxi to his train station and said goodbye.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET AGAIN?

I doN’T see any point.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?

I hoNesTLY couldn’t tell you as he didn’t give me any indication.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HIM?

I doN’T think so, as he’s too quiet and reserved for me. And we didn’t click. It was just bland.