‘ If he’d asked for my number I’d have given it to him. He didn’t ’

HELEN, 54

VITAL STATISTICS SINGLE for three years, with a daughter, 13, and a ‘second daughter’ — my dog Luna.

CURRENT ROLE EDUCATION support worker.

WOULD LIKE TO MEET

A MAN who is compassionate, has integrity and likes animals.

DATING PAST?

I have been married once, but I divorced in 2014 because we wanted different things in life. I felt he was focused on work and not family.

My last relationship ended when he told me he ‘loved me like a sister’. The experience left me heartbroken because I felt he was perfect for me.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

I lead a busy life so there was no time to be nervous. Besides, I’d brought my two-year-old dog luna with me. She’s a Maltese and very well-behaved. My match said he liked dogs, so I thought it would be a good idea.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

davId is tall and slim, with dark hair and a nice face. On being introduced to luna, his first question was: ‘do you take her everywhere with you?’ I do, when I can.

While david likes dogs, I think he prefers bigger ones over a ball of fluff like luna. I suspect he thinks she’s a ‘woman’s dog’.

EASY TO TALK TO?

We BrOke the ice by discussing what we’d eat. I’m a vegetarian but I made it clear it was fine if david ordered meat.

he’s spent a lot of time in Cornwall, which is my favourite place in england — and not just because my celebrity crush is Poldark. It’s such a rugged and wild place, with nature on your doorstep. We’re both fans of the outdoor lifestyle and love long walks. More common ground was chalked up when we discovered we’d both spent time in the Far east. We really did have plenty to talk about.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

NO. I didn’t trip over and I don’t think I dropped any food down me, either.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I’M NOT sure if there was chemistry between us, but there was common ground. at our age, that instant attraction we’re supposed to feel seems blown out of all proportion. Sometimes feelings can develop from something small — and maybe there was a little spark there.

SEE HIM AGAIN?

IF davId had asked for my number I’d have gladly given it to him — but he didn’t. Maybe he’s shy? It’s a shame because he’s an intelligent, thoughtful person, not a macho man. It was a good match.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?

IT’S difficult to say. Maybe he thinks I’m not sophisticated or intellectual enough for him. hopefully he liked me (and luna!).

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HIM?

YeS — I think so. My father lives with me, and he likes quiet people. he’d like that in david.