‘ We went to shake hands but it turned ’ into a double kiss

REBECCA, 52 VITAL STATISTICS

SINGLE for eight months, with two daughters, 20 and 14.

CURRENT ROLE

I RUN my own tent rental business.

WOULD LIKE TO MEET

SOMEONE intelligent and with an open mind.

DATING PAST?

UNFORTUNATELY, I’m a serial monogamist. I spent 15 years with the father of my children. We parted amicably nine years ago and are still friends. My last relationship lasted for eight years but we separated in october last year.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

It WAS my first date since I split with my ex, so I was feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. My friends are pleased I’m doing this — they think it’s a great way to dip my toes back in the dating pool.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

Monty was already at the restaurant and while we initially went to shake hands, somehow it turned into a kiss on each cheek — it felt natural. Monty is a handsome man with lovely blue eyes and chiselled features. He looked dapper in a tweed jacket with a handkerchief in his top pocket. I’d decided on a pink jumpsuit which Monty liked — as did the guy at the next table.

EASY TO TALK TO?

We’re both in the first year of moving on from our exes and agreed we aren’t terrible people just because we’ve been through a split. Monty’s interesting. He’s immersed in the crypto and tech world so does a lot of travelling for work. He loved hearing about my business, too. I rent out tents and he was shocked that 250,000 end up in landfills each year. I think he could see I’m trying to do something good for the planet. When we eventually got around to ordering, I went for veggie options and Monty had shepherd’s pie. We ordered a gin and tonic each, but I tried not to get drunk — it’s not a great idea on a date!

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

I don’t think so. I tend to speak before I think, so I was careful to be on my best behaviour.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I really liked Monty and he gave me a peck on the cheek as I got into my cab. But I don’t think he’s ready to start dating yet as I suspect he is still getting over the separation from his wife. I’d like for us to stay friends. Who knows what the future might bring?

SEE HIM AGAIN?

YES, I’d like to. We exchanged numbers and have been texting since.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?

Monty was complimentary but I don’t know if he liked me in that way. everything is pointing to a friendship.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS LIKE HIM?

YES, Monty is a nice, kind and independent person. He’s funny with a dry sense of humour too.